Apple has finally approved Epic Games’ third-party app marketplace for launch in the EU after facing initial rejections. The approval comes after Epic Games announced its plans to bring back its digital storefront and popular game, Fortnite, to iOS in Europe. However, Apple rejected the submission twice, citing concerns that the Games Store resembled Apple’s App Store too closely.
Epic Games took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with Apple’s rejections, stating that they would bring the matter to European regulators for review. The company argued that they were following standard naming conventions used by popular app stores on other platforms and accused Apple of being arbitrary, obstructive, and in violation of the DMA.
In response to Epic’s complaints, Apple approved the third-party marketplace app but requested that Epic Games make the necessary corrections in a subsequent update. Apple pointed out that while Epic generally followed the guidelines to avoid confusion between the Games Store and the App Store, certain design elements needed to be adjusted.
This situation highlights the challenges faced by developers seeking to launch third-party app stores on iOS under the new rules mandated by the EU’s Digital Markets Act. Apple, as a designated “gatekeeper,” is now required to allow third-party app stores on the iPhone, but strict adherence to guidelines and potential rejections could deter other developers from exploring alternative distribution channels.
Epic Games’ ongoing battle with Apple over commissions on in-app purchases has been a long-standing issue, with Epic attempting to circumvent Apple’s fees. While Epic lost its case against Apple in the U.S., it has persisted in its efforts to bring Fortnite back to iOS in the EU and introduce its Games Store to the market.
The approval of Epic Games’ marketplace app signifies a significant development in the ongoing saga between the two tech giants. Apple’s acceptance of the submission indicates a willingness to work with Epic Games to ensure compliance with the rules and regulations set forth by the DMA.
In conclusion, the approval of Epic Games’ marketplace app by Apple marks a step forward in the relationship between the two companies and sets a precedent for other developers looking to establish third-party app stores on iOS. It will be interesting to see how this decision impacts the future of app distribution on Apple devices and whether other developers will follow suit in pursuing alternative distribution channels.
