Find out how ‘Fortnite’ made a comeback on iPhone and Android in Europe after legal battle!

The Unveiling of the Editor’s Ethos

Roula Khalaf, the esteemed Editor of the FT, unveils her carefully curated selection of the most riveting stories in the weekly newsletter that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

1. The Resurgence of Fortnite on Mobile Devices:
   • Fortnite, the globally renowned video game, is making a triumphant return to iPhones in Europe and Android devices worldwide, after a high-profile debacle where it was removed from Apple and Google’s app stores.
   • This comeback marks a turning point, shedding light on how EU regulations are now impacting tech behemoths. The introduction of the EU’s Digital Markets Act has forced digital giants to open their platforms to competition.
   • Epic Games, the developer behind Fortnite, is leading the charge by launching their own mobile app store and offering their games on alternative platforms such as Aptoide and AltStore in compliance with the DMA.
   • Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, champions this shift, emphasizing the importance of fostering a competitive spirit among developers to create a more inclusive and thriving industry.
2. Fortnite’s Enduring Popularity:
   • Seven years since its inception, Fortnite continues to reign supreme with gamers across the globe.
   • Data from Ampere Analysis reveals that a staggering 35 million players spent over 600 million hours playing Fortnite on Xbox and PlayStation in July, solidifying its status as the dominant game on those consoles.
3. The Legal Battles and Regulatory Scrutiny:
   • Apple and Google removed Epic’s games from their respective app stores in 2020 following a legal dispute over in-app billing practices.
   • The EU’s Digital Markets Act mandates digital gatekeepers to reform their practices, especially concerning mobile operating systems and app store accessibility.
   • Both Apple and Google are under investigation by the EU for compliance with the new regulations, with potential fines looming if they fail to adhere.
4. The Duel with Apple and Google:
   • Epic contends with Apple in the US over payment methods outside the App Store and Google in a California federal jury case involving Android app market competition.
   • Apple has faced criticism from Epic and others for its allegedly obstructive tactics to stifle competition and deter developers from exploring alternative app distribution channels.
   • Epic lauds the EU for intervening to prevent Apple from impeding their fair competition in the market.

In conclusion, the narrative of Fortnite’s resurgence and Epic Games’ fervor to foster a more competitive developer ecosystem underscore the evolving landscape of tech regulations and the battle for a level playing field in the digital realm. As the industry giants navigate legal quagmires and regulatory mandates, the future of app stores and digital markets hangs in the balance, awaiting a new era of innovation and collaboration.