Fortnite’s Epic Comeback to Apple’s App Store: A Game-Changing Victory

miracoulia May 15, 2025 canada news

A Historic Return After a Five-Year Battle

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the gaming and tech industries, Epic Games has submitted Fortnite for review on Apple’s App Store in the United States, marking its potential return after a five-year absence. This development follows a landmark court ruling in Epic’s favor, forcing Apple to revise its restrictive App Store policies. The news has sparked a frenzy in Canada, with “Epic Games” trending across social media platforms like X. In this article, we dive into the details of this monumental event, its implications for the gaming world, and what it means for Fortnite fans eagerly awaiting its iOS comeback. Drawing from the latest sources, this SEO-optimized article aims to deliver the most comprehensive and engaging coverage of this trending topic.

Fortnite’s Epic Comeback to Apple’s App Store: A Game-Changing Victory

The Epic vs. Apple Saga: A Brief Recap

The conflict between Epic Games and Apple began in August 2020 when Epic introduced a direct payment system in Fortnite for iOS, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases. Apple swiftly removed Fortnite from the App Store, citing a violation of its policies, and terminated Epic’s developer account. Epic retaliated with an antitrust lawsuit, accusing Apple of monopolistic practices by enforcing exclusive use of its payment system and limiting app distribution to the App Store.

The legal battle, spanning nearly five years, culminated in a significant ruling on April 30, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers. The judge found Apple in contempt for violating a 2021 injunction, which required the company to allow developers to link to external payment options without imposing commissions. The court criticized Apple’s “malicious compliance,” accusing the company of misleading the court and engaging in anticompetitive behavior to maintain its revenue stream.

This ruling has paved the way for Fortnite’s return to iOS, with Epic Games submitting the game for App Store review on May 9, 2025.

Fortnite’s Submission: What’s Happening Now?

Epic Games announced via its official X account that Fortnite was submitted to Apple’s App Store for review, with the goal of launching in the U.S. market. The submitted version of Fortnite includes both Apple’s in-app purchase system and an external payment option via the Epic Games Store, aligning with the court’s mandate for payment choice.

However, the process has not been without hurdles. Despite Apple’s claim that 90% of app submissions are reviewed within 24 hours, Fortnite’s approval has been delayed, with Epic reporting no response from Apple for over 120 hours by May 14, 2025. This prompted Epic to resubmit a new version of the game to align with its weekly content update schedule.

Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, has been vocal about the process, stating on X that the company is using its EU-based Sweden developer account to submit Fortnite to the U.S. App Store, as Apple terminated its original U.S. account in 2020. Sweeney also proposed a “peace offering”: if Apple extends the court’s “friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework” globally, Epic would return Fortnite to the App Store worldwide and drop all current and future litigation.

Why the Delay? Apple’s Response and Ongoing Appeal

Apple has not remained silent in this saga. The company filed an emergency motion with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to pause the April 30 ruling, arguing that the decision imposes “punitive measures” that could cost Apple “hundreds of millions to billions” annually. Apple contends that it should not be forced to provide “free access” to its platform and is challenging the ban on its 27% commission for external purchases.

Despite complying with the court’s order, Apple’s appeal reflects its reluctance to fully embrace the new policies. The company’s actions have drawn further scrutiny, with Judge Gonzalez Rogers referring Apple and its Vice President of Finance, Alex Roman, to federal prosecutors for potential criminal contempt, citing misleading testimony and an “obvious cover-up.”

The delay in Fortnite’s approval may also stem from Apple’s internal review process, which is not entirely within Epic’s control. While Apple has the legal right to reject Fortnite’s submission, doing so could damage its public image, especially as its relationship with developers continues to deteriorate.

What This Means for Gamers and the Industry

For Fortnite fans, the potential return to iOS is a long-awaited victory. The game, which generated over $300 million on iOS in its two years on the platform, has been inaccessible to iPhone and iPad users since 2020, affecting not only players but also their friends who rely on cross-platform play.

The court’s ruling has broader implications for the app ecosystem. By barring Apple from charging commissions on external purchases and restricting how developers communicate alternative payment options, the decision empowers developers to offer competitive pricing and retain more revenue. This could lead to lower prices for in-game purchases and subscriptions, benefiting consumers.

Moreover, Epic’s victory has inspired other developers to challenge Apple’s policies. For instance, a class-action lawsuit filed by Pure Sweat Basketball alleges that Apple’s defiance of the 2021 injunction caused developers to pay inflated commissions for over a year.

Epic is also leveraging this momentum to promote its own payment system, offering 20% back in Epic Rewards for purchases made through the Epic Games Store in Fortnite, Rocket League, and Among Us. This move aims to incentivize players to bypass Apple’s in-app purchases, further challenging Apple’s dominance.

The Road Ahead: Will Fortnite Return Globally?

While Fortnite’s return to the U.S. App Store is imminent, its global relaunch remains uncertain. Epic’s proposal for a worldwide rollout hinges on Apple adopting the court’s framework universally, a condition Apple has yet to accept.

In the European Union, Fortnite is already on track to return, with Epic using its Sweden developer account to develop the Epic Games Store for iOS. This follows regulatory changes in the EU that align with Epic’s push for open app ecosystems.

The ongoing appeal by Apple could further complicate matters. If the Ninth Circuit grants Apple’s request to pause the ruling, it may delay Fortnite’s return and reinstate Apple’s ability to charge commissions on external purchases. However, Epic remains optimistic, with Sweeney stating on X that the company is moving “full speed ahead” to bring Fortnite back to iPhones and iPads.

Why This Story Is Trending in Canada

The Fortnite and Epic Games saga has captured significant attention in Canada, where gaming communities are buzzing with excitement over the potential return of one of the world’s most popular battle royale games. The keyword “Epic Games” has surged on platforms like X, reflecting the enthusiasm of Canadian gamers who have followed the legal battle closely. The prospect of Fortnite’s return to iOS, combined with its cultural impact and cross-platform appeal, has made this a top trending topic in the region.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Fortnite and App Store Policies

Epic Games’ submission of Fortnite to Apple’s App Store marks a pivotal moment in the gaming industry and the ongoing fight for fair app store practices. The court’s ruling has not only cleared the path for Fortnite’s return but also challenged Apple’s long-standing control over its ecosystem, potentially reshaping how apps are distributed and monetized.

As gamers in Canada and beyond await Fortnite’s official relaunch, the spotlight remains on Apple’s next move. Will the tech giant embrace the court’s mandate, or will it continue to fight for its lucrative commission model? One thing is certain: Epic Games has redefined the rules of the game, and Fortnite’s comeback is poised to be nothing short of epic.

For the latest updates on Fortnite’s App Store status, stay tuned to Epic Games’ official channels and trending discussions on X.