After over four years of absence, Fortnite is officially back on the iOS App Store in the United States. This follows a lengthy legal battle between Epic Games and Apple that began in 2020 over Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Epic Games celebrates the game’s return and expands to European markets after a recent withdrawal. Players now have the option to pay through Epic’s own payment system, which offers 20% cashback via Epic’s Rewards program — a clear improvement over previous payment models.
This reopening represents a serious win for developers seeking alternatives to Apple’s payment system. It also adds value for consumers by reducing costs and rewarding loyalty.
The Legal Battle Behind the Return
Epic’s attempt to bypass Apple’s mandatory payment system led Fortnite’s removal from the App Store in 2020. Epic responded with a lawsuit challenging Apple’s monopoly over app payments.
In late April 2025, Apple was compelled to revise its App Store rules in the U.S., allowing alternative payment methods. This regulatory change paved the way for apps like Amazon and Spotify to update their payment options — and now Fortnite follows suit.
Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, thanked supporters of mobile competition on social media, emphasizing the victory for developer and consumer rights.
What Players Need to Know
Fortnite can now be found by searching the App Store or at the top of the Action Games category. However, Apple is unlikely to promote the game actively.
Some Apple devices, such as the iPhone SE Gen 2, iPhone XR, iPad Mini 5, iPad Air 3, and standard iPads from generation six to nine, can download Fortnite but may not run it due to insufficient RAM.
Epic submitted Fortnite for Apple’s approval on May 9, 2025. After no response by May 19, Epic appealed to the original judge, who demanded Apple justify ignoring the court’s order to allow alternative payments.
Apple fights to maintain control over App Store payments, which reportedly generated over $10 billion in 2024.
TF Summary: What’s Next
Fortnite’s return to iOS with an improved rewards system marks a milestone in the ongoing struggle over app store payment policies. Developers and consumers gain more payment options, but Apple’s legal battles continue.
Gamers should expect a smoother, more rewarding payment experience, and the broader industry will monitor how this affects App Store dynamics.
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