Fortnite might finally return to iOS after 4 long years

Could Fortnite be making its way back to iOS devices after 4 years thanks to EU App Store sideloading rules

Fortnite might finally return to iOS after 4 long years

Image via: Epic Games

The most popular battle royale game, Fortnite, was banned from iOS devices in 2020 after a massive dispute between Apple and Epic Games. The game was pulled from the App Store. This meant that not only were newer players unable to download the game, but older players on both iOS and MacOS would be unable to update the game to its latest season, Season 4.

Apple charges a 30% commission for all transactions done through the App Store. Since Apple does not allow any alternatives on their devices, all app and in-app purchases must go through the company. Epic Games sued Apple in mid-August 2020. They claimed that the company’s policies violated the Sherman Act.

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Epic Games further added that Apple was running a monopoly. Epic and other developers must have access to alternatives. Apple responded by removing Fortnite from the App Store and counter-suing for damages. Apple also wanted to cut off Epic’s access to its developer tools program, which would have affected any apps that use Epic’s Unreal Engine.

The app has since been banished from Apple devices, giving Apple users no way to enjoy the game. However, things may soon be about to change. With rules being changed around the App Store, developers may be able to publish apps on the App Store without Apple’s approval.

Is Fortnite making its way back to iOS devices?

A recent revelation about a sideloading feature is coming to the EU app store. Sideloading allows publishers to distribute applications on the App Store without getting approval from Apple. This could open a pathway for the popular battle royale to return to Apple devices.

Fortnite
Image via: Epic Games

There is still no clarity about this situation, as Epic Games has made no official comment on these speculations. It is also important to note that this sideloading feature will only be coming to the European Union App Store. Apple users worldwide will still be unable to enjoy Fortnite Chapter 5 Season 1.

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