In a significant setback for Epic Games, their ambitions to introduce the Epic Games Store to iOS users in the EU have been obstructed by Apple, which has revoked the gaming giant's developer account. The decision, branding Epic as "verifiably untrustworthy," also impacts the much-anticipated comeback of Fortnite on the iOS platform.
🛑#Apple Terminates #EpicGames' Developer Account
— ASO Game News (@ASOGameNews) March 7, 2024
>>> https://t.co/O4mT6KENTB
- a setback for #Fortnite's iOS Return in EU
- the reason may be the public criticism by Tim Sweeney
- amid DMA compliance dispute#AppleVsEpic #EUDMA #EpicGamesStore #FortniteiOS pic.twitter.com/5v1Z06lGBX
Epic's Initial Announcement
Back in February, Epic had announced plans to launch its game store on iOS in Europe, in line with the EU's Digital Markets Act that mandates tech giants to permit sideloading and alternative marketplaces.
Despite Epic CEO Tim Sweeney's critical remarks on Apple's approach to the new EU rules, the company confirmed receiving an Apple Developer Account and intended to launch the Epic Games Store, operated by Epic Games Sweden, within the year.
Apple's Retaliation
Account Termination
However, Epic's progress has come to a grinding halt as Apple terminated the developer account of Epic Games Sweden AB, alleging a breach of trust. This move by Apple not only halts the development of Epic's iOS store but also signals a potential disregard for the EU's Digital Markets Act, according to Epic.
Request for Assurance
The conflict escalated following a request from Apple's Phil Schiller for written confirmation of Epic's "good faith" in compliance with Apple's terms. This request came in the wake of Sweeney's public criticism of Apple's policies.
Despite Sweeney's assurance of compliance, Apple deemed his response inadequate, citing Epic's history of sidestepping Apple's App Store guidelines.
Epic's Counter
In a robust public statement, Epic condemned Apple's decision as a strategic move to eliminate a major competitor and intimidate other developers.
Epic argues that such actions by Apple discourage developers from investing in alternative app marketplaces due to the risk of arbitrary exclusion.
Editor's Comments
Apple's stringent measures against Epic Games highlight the ongoing battle for control over app distribution on iOS. While Epic portrays itself as a crusader for open markets, Apple's stance reflects its commitment to safeguarding its ecosystem. This clash underscores the broader tension between app developers and platform owners over market access and revenue sharing.
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