Apple has accepted Epic’s third-party app store after a series of rejections and disputes between the two companies. Less than 10 hours after Epic posted a tweet thread criticizing Apple’s app submission processes, Apple informed Epic that its game store submission has been accepted. This comes after Apple initially rejected the submission over the design and position of the “install” button, claiming it too closely resembled Apple’s own “get” button. Apple also cited similarities in the “in-app purchases” label.
Epic, the maker of Fortnite, sees Apple’s rejection as arbitrary and obstructive, and in violation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Epic has raised concerns with the European Commission regarding potential DMA violations. Despite the ongoing disputes, Epic is still planning to launch both the Epic Games Store and Fortnite on iOS in the EU in the coming months, as long as Apple doesn’t create further obstacles.
The rivalry between Epic and Apple dates back years, starting when Epic introduced its own in-app payment option in the iOS version of Fortnite to avoid Apple’s 30 percent cut. This decision led to a legal battle in the US, with Epic suing Apple and Apple banning Epic from the App Store. A judge issued a permanent injunction to allow developers to bypass Apple’s commission, but this didn’t resolve the conflict.
While the legal battle continued in the US, the EU passed the DMA, which required Apple to allow third-party storefronts on iOS devices in Europe. Despite this regulation, Apple has been resistant to Epic’s efforts to launch its store on iOS devices. The ongoing disputes highlight the complex dynamics between tech giants and the regulatory challenges they face.
Overall, the acceptance of Epic’s third-party app store by Apple marks a significant development in the app market, showcasing the power dynamics and competition between major players in the industry. The ongoing legal battles and regulatory interventions demonstrate the need for greater transparency and fair competition in the digital marketplace. As the situation continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how both companies navigate these challenges and adapt to the evolving landscape of app distribution.
