In a landmark decision, Epic Games has announced that Fortnite will return to the iOS App Store in the U.S. next week—ending a nearly five-year absence sparked by Apple’s infamous 2020 ban. This comes after a federal court ruled that Apple cannot charge commissions on purchases made outside its App Store, dealing a major blow to the tech giant’s lucrative 30% “Apple Tax.”
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney declared the move on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “major victory for developers and consumers” while extending an unexpected peace offer to Apple.
Why Was Fortnite Banned from iOS?
- August 2020: Apple removed Fortnite after Epic introduced a direct payment system, bypassing Apple’s 30% in-app purchase (IAP) fee.
- Legal Battle Ensued: Epic sued Apple, accusing it of anti-competitive practices—a case that reached the U.S. Supreme Court.
- 2021 Ruling: A judge mostly sided with Apple but ordered it to allow external payment links—a ruling Apple resisted.
- April 2025 Decision: A new court order blocks Apple from taking commissions on outside purchases, forcing a major policy shift.
Epic’s Bold “Peace Proposal” to Apple
Sweeney’s post included a surprising olive branch:
“If Apple extends the court’s friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework worldwide, we’ll return Fortnite to the App Store worldwide and drop current and future litigation on the topic.”
This suggests Epic is willing to end its legal war—but only if Apple abandons its global App Store commission model.
What This Means for iPhone Users & Developers
- Fortnite Returns to U.S. iPhones – Gamers can soon download it directly from the App Store (no sideloading required).
- Alternative Payment Options – Developers may soon bypass Apple’s fees, leading to lower prices for consumers.
- Potential Ripple Effect – If Apple complies globally, other apps (like Spotify, Netflix) could follow Epic’s lead.
- EU vs. U.S. Differences – In Europe, Fortnite is already back via Epic’s own store (thanks to the Digital Markets Act), but U.S. users still rely on Apple’s ecosystem.
Will Apple Accept Epic’s Offer?
- Apple’s Stance So Far: The company has fought fiercely to protect its App Store revenue (estimated at $24 billion annually).
- Regulatory Pressure: With the EU’s DMA and now U.S. courts challenging its model, Apple may have no choice but to adapt.
- Possible Compromise: Apple could reduce fees (as it did for small developers) or allow more payment freedom—but a full surrender seems unlikely.
Expert Insight: A Turning Point for App Stores?
As a tech policy analyst with a decade of experience covering Apple-Epic disputes, I believe this ruling could reshape mobile app economics:
✅ More Developer Revenue – If fees drop, indie devs keep more profits.
✅ Consumer Benefits – Cheaper subscriptions, in-game purchases.
✅ Increased Competition – Alternative app stores could rise.
But challenges remain:
❌ Apple’s Compliance – Will it find loopholes?
❌ Security Concerns – Will sideloading increase scams?
❌ Ongoing Legal Fights – Other lawsuits (like Spotify vs. Apple) loom.
What’s Next?
- Next Week: Fortnite relaunches on iOS in the U.S.
- 2025 & Beyond: If Apple resists, expect more court battles—if it complies, the App Store monopoly may crumble.
