Epic Games Store Debuts on iPad in the European Union: Fortnite Makes a Comeback on iPadOS
After an extended absence, Fortnite and additional titles from Epic Games have returned to the iPad. Nonetheless, there’s a stipulation: this update is presently accessible only to users in the European Union (EU). This progression is part of a larger transformation within the app ecosystem on Apple devices, specifically prompted by regulatory changes requiring Apple to permit third-party app stores on iPads in the EU. Here’s what this signifies for users, the gaming environment, and what we might anticipate in the future.
Fortnite’s Comeback on the iPad: A Significant Achievement
Fortnite, the immensely popular battle royale title that captured global attention, is back on iPadOS. This revival is crucial not only for countless Fortnite enthusiasts but also for the wider gaming community. The game was pulled from the App Store in 2020 following a well-publicized legal conflict between Epic Games and Apple. The controversy ignited when Epic introduced an option for direct payments within Fortnite, circumventing Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases. This action breached Apple’s App Store regulations, resulting in the game’s expulsion.
However, with the updates in iPadOS 18, Epic Games has discovered a new method to provide its beloved titles on Apple’s tablets. The updated operating system supports the installation of apps from third-party app stores, a capability currently restricted to the EU as part of Apple’s compliance with recent regulatory adjustments.
Why Is It Exclusively the European Union?
While it may appear unjust that only EU users can currently benefit from this, the rationale lies in regulatory insistence. The European Union has taken the lead in regulating digital marketplaces through the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This legislation seeks to curtail the monopolistic dominance of tech giants such as Apple and Google over their app ecosystems, promoting a more competitive and accessible market. Consequently, Apple is mandated to accommodate third-party app stores within the EU.
This regulatory movement enables Epic Games to present its offerings, including Fortnite, via the Epic Games Store on iPad, providing an alternative to the conventional App Store. In contrast, users from other regions, including the United States, remain confined to Apple’s tightly regulated app market.
The Impact of iPadOS 18: A Revolutionary Shift for Open App Stores
With the launch of iPadOS 18, Apple has rolled out several updates that allow users to download applications from third-party platforms beyond the official App Store. This marks a considerable alteration for the company, known for its stringent oversight of app distribution on its devices. However, for the moment, these enhancements are limited to the European Union.
This new functionality paves the way for platforms like the Epic Games Store to thrive on iPad in the EU, allowing users to sideload applications and games that might not be found on the official App Store or those that offer alternative purchasing methods, such as avoiding Apple’s 30% commission on in-app transactions.
The Turbulent History Between Apple and Epic Games
The rapport between Apple and Epic Games has been fraught with complications. The public clash began in August 2020 when Epic sought to bypass Apple’s in-app payment system within Fortnite. Epic introduced a direct payment method, breaching Apple’s App Store guidelines. Apple retaliated by removing Fortnite from the App Store, which sparked a protracted legal battle that drew considerable attention.
The legal confrontation revolved around anti-competitive conduct and the control of the app marketplace. Epic contended that Apple’s App Store rules were monopolistic, while Apple argued that its stringent regulation over iOS app distribution was crucial for security and quality control. The case endured multiple court rounds, with both parties claiming partial successes. Nevertheless, Fortnite remained inaccessible on the App Store for years, disappointing its fanbase.
Now, with the advent of third-party app stores in iPadOS 18 (at least in the EU), Epic Games has uncovered a new avenue to distribute its games on Apple’s devices without adhering to the company’s rigorous App Store protocols.
The Implications for Gamers and Developers
For gamers, particularly those in the EU, this is excellent news. The resurgence of Fortnite on the iPad allows players to relish the game once again on a portable, touch-screen device, with all its inherent advantages. Furthermore, the presence of the Epic Games Store on iPad means users can explore a broader selection of games that may not feature on Apple’s App Store.
For developers, this transition represents a substantial opportunity. The potential to distribute applications via third-party platforms opens new revenue avenues and lessens dependence on Apple’s ecosystem. Developers can now present apps with varying pricing strategies, potentially reducing costs for consumers by bypassing Apple’s 30% commission. This could culminate in a wider array of applications and services on Apple devices, benefiting both developers and users alike.
What Lies Ahead for Apple and Third-Party App Stores?
Although the rollout of third-party app stores is currently confined to the EU, speculation is increasing that Apple may ultimately need to introduce similar features in other regions. Regulatory bodies in the United States and elsewhere are increasingly scrutinizing the power of tech giants, and Apple may face comparable pressure in additional markets.
For the time being, however, users outside the EU will continue to be limited to the official App Store, and it remains uncertain whether Apple will proactively expand this feature or wait for further regulatory compulsion.
Conclusion
The return of Fortnite to the iPad through the Epic Games Store in the European Union represents a pivotal achievement, not only for gamers but also for the wider tech industry. It denotes a transition in Apple’s governance over its app ecosystem, instigated by regulatory alterations in the European Union. For EU users, this means enhanced freedom to download applications from third-party stores and potentially reduced expenses on in-app purchases. For developers, it signifies a fresh chance to circumvent Apple’s stringent control and engage with users directly.
The fate of third-party app stores on Apple devices is still unpredictable outside the EU, but the changes we are observing in Europe could lay the groundwork for similar advancements in other regions.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions About the Epic Games Store on iPad
Q1. Why is Fortnite only available on iPad in the European Union?
A1. This is due to new regulations in the European Union, particularly the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates Apple to permit third-party app stores on its devices. This feature is currently exclusive to the EU, meaning users in other areas lack access to the Epic Games Store on iPad.
Q2. Will the Epic Games Store be available on iPad in other regions?
A2. At this moment, it’s uncertain when or if Apple will grant access to third-party app stores in regions like the United States. Nonetheless, increasing regulatory scrutiny could soon compel Apple to extend this feature worldwide.
Q3. Can I purchase in-game items directly on the Epic Games Store without incurring Apple’s 30% commission?
A3. Yes, one of the primary benefits of using the Epic Games Store is that it enables users to make purchases directly through Epic, circumventing Apple’s standard 30% commission on in-app purchases.
Q4. How do I install the Epic Games Store on my iPad?
A4. In the European Union, users with iPadOS 18 can install the Epic Games Store by downloading it from third-party sources. This capability is currently limited to the EU, so users in other areas will be unable to install the store at this time.
Q5. What other games are available on the Epic Games Store for iPad?
A5. Besides Fortnite, the Epic Games Store hosts a variety of additional popular games and titles from Epic Games and various third-party developers. The selection of games is expected to broaden as more developers seek to leverage the new platform.
Q6. Will this change impact my current App Store apps?
A6. No, the introduction of third-party app stores will not affect applications downloaded from the official App Store. Users can continue using apps from both the App Store and third-party platforms without any complications.
Q7. Is this change permanent?
A7. Assuming the regulatory framework of the European Union remains intact, Apple will continue to support third-party app stores within the EU. However, the situation may change depending on potential future legal or regulatory developments.
