In response to pressure from European regulators, Apple took a step back in its dispute with Epic Games on Friday, allowing Epic to introduce its own game store on iPhones and iPads in Europe.
Earlier in the week, Apple had prevented Epic from establishing a store and re-releasing the popular game Fortnite, which Apple removed from its App Store in 2020 due to Epic’s violation of in-app payment rules.
This decision by Apple to accommodate Epic aligns with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which prohibits tech giants like Apple and Google from controlling app distribution on devices with iOS and Android.
The EU’s industry chief, Thierry Breton, expressed satisfaction that Apple reversed its decision following regulatory warnings and highlighted the DMA’s immediate impact.
Epic and Apple have been entangled in a legal battle since 2020, with Epic accusing Apple of antitrust violations regarding its 30% commission on in-app payments.
Although Epic achieved a victory in Europe, it falls short of its broader objectives against Apple. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney criticized Apple’s DMA compliance plans and Fortnite’s unavailability in the U.S. App Store.
Despite Apple’s reinstatement of Epic’s developer account, the tension highlights broader challenges for Apple’s App Store business model. Apple faces scrutiny over its control and business practices as it grapples with a decline in iPhone sales, signaling a shifting landscape for the tech giant.
The recent clash emphasizes the evolving dynamics between major tech players and regulatory authorities seeking to ensure fair competition in the digital marketplace.
