In a move few expected so soon, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has confirmed that Fortnite will return to the iOS App Store in the U.S. next week. This comes in the wake of Apple’s latest legal setback over its App Store policies, and it may just be the beginning of a bigger showdown.
But there’s a twist. Epic is offering peace, but only if Apple agrees to go global with the change.
Epic Extends an Olive Branch, On One Condition
Tim Sweeney broke the news on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“We will return Fortnite to the US iOS App Store next week.”
But he didn’t stop there. Sweeney went on to say that if Apple agrees to apply the court-ordered, commission-free payment system not just in the U.S., but globally, Epic will:
Bring Fortnite back to all App Store regions, and drop all current and future lawsuits against Apple.
It’s a bold move and a clear challenge.
So, What’s the Catch?
Surprisingly, there isn’t one. At least, not for players. Fortnite will still be available to download and play via the App Store, but Epic won’t let users buy V-Bucks (its in-game currency) directly in the app. Instead, players will be directed to Epic’s website to complete purchases.
By doing this, Epic sidesteps Apple’s 15-30% commission cut entirely and keeps 100 percent of the revenue.
Will Apple Play Along?
The recent court ruling only forces Apple to allow external payment links in the U.S. There’s no global legal requirement for Apple to extend this change elsewhere.
So, the big question is: Will Apple accept Sweeney’s terms and open its App Store worldwide? So far, Apple has shown little interest in doing that.
For now, only U.S. iOS players can look forward to Fortnite’s return without relying on third-party services like GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming. International users, however, will need to wait.
Why This Matters
Fortnite’s comeback is a huge win for gamers, but it also highlights the growing pressure on Apple’s tight grip over the App Store ecosystem.
This announcement follows hot on the heels of the European Commission fining Apple €500 million for failing to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Global regulators are clearly ramping up scrutiny, and Epic knows it.
If Apple gives in, it could set a precedent for how App Stores operate worldwide. If it resists, the legal battle could rage on and possibly reshape the mobile app economy forever.
What’s Next?
Expect fireworks.
- U.S. gamers get Fortnite back next week
- Epic awaits Apple’s response to its global truce offer
- Regulators across the globe are watching closely
No matter what Apple decides, this is a turning point, and the App Store debate isn’t going away anytime soon.
What do you think?
Are you excited to see Fortnite back on iOS? Should Apple make the same App Store changes worldwide? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
