Fortnite, the hugely popular battle royale game developed by Epic Games, was removed from the iOS App Store in August 2020 due to a dispute between Epic and Apple over App Store policies and commissions. This removal left many iOS users wondering if Fortnite will ever return to iPhones and iPads.
As of now, there is no definitive answer on whether Fortnite is coming back to iOS in 2024 or later. However, there are some promising signs and possibilities that suggest the game could return soon.
The Dispute Between Epic and Apple
The dispute arose when Epic intentionally violated Apple’s App Store policies by implementing a direct payment option in Fortnite that allowed players to purchase V-Bucks directly from Epic, bypassing Apple’s in-app purchase system and 30% commission fee.
In response, Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store, stating that Epic violated platform policies. This led to a high-profile legal battle between the two companies that is still ongoing.
Epic filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, alleging anti-competitive practices related to the App Store’s policies and fees. The lawsuit is complex and has gone through various appeals, with no definitive resolution so far.
Possibility of Fortnite Returning Through Alternative iOS App Stores
One possibility for Fortnite’s return is through alternative third-party iOS app stores that may launch in the future.
The EU’s Digital Markets Act passed in 2022 requires Apple to allow sideloading of apps and alternative app stores by 2024. This could allow Epic to launch its own iOS app store or distribute Fortnite through another store.
However, Apple is expected to resist these mandated changes, so the timeline is uncertain. But if alternative iOS stores do materialize, Fortnite could leverage them for an iOS comeback without needing Apple’s approval.
Potential for Direct Return to the App Store
Another potential avenue for Fortnite’s iOS return is through a direct relaunch on the official App Store.
Apple could reinstate Epic’s developer account and allow Fornite back if the two companies are able to resolve their differences and Epic agrees to comply with App Store policies.
This seems unlikely, given the bad blood and ongoing lawsuits. However, if Apple faces pressure or sees a strategic benefit, it may opt to bring Fortnite back into the fold rather than lose iOS revenues to third-party stores.
iOS Cloud Gaming Services
Currently, Fortnite is playable on iOS devices through Nvidia’s GeForce Now and Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming browser-based game streaming services.
These cloud gaming platforms enable iOS users to play the full Fortnite game by streaming it to the device’s browser. They provide a workaround while native Fortnite remains banned.
The cloud services will likely continue to be an option even if Fortnite returns natively, giving iOS players flexibility in how they access the game.
Epic CEO Hinted at 2023 iOS Return
In a New Year’s Eve 2022 tweet, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney cryptically wrote,“Next year on iOS!” This hinted at Fortnite possibly returning to iOS sometime in 2023.
Sweeney provided no details, so an iOS relaunch was not guaranteed. But his tweet suggests Epic was working toward bringing Fortnite back officially in 2023, perhaps anticipating Apple’s compliance with the EU regulations. But as of November 2023, Fortnite is not available on iOS.
Final Words
While Fortnite’s iOS fate hangs in limbo, there are strong indicators that Epic is pushing for the game to return to iPhones and iPads. It couldn’t be possible in 2023,but 2024 may prove good for Epic as well as iOS users who are waiting for Fortnite to return.