Fortnite fans have been unable to play the game on iPhone due to some corporate wrangling. But that’s changing. The iconic game is making a surprise return to iPhones in the European Union. This news is sure to excite mobile gamers even more. Let’s take a look at the details of this epic development.
AltStore, an alternative app marketplace, is set to become the new home for Fortnite on iOS devices. This move comes as Apple opens its doors to third-party app stores in the EU, following new regulations. Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, has chosen AltStore as its partner to bring the battle royale sensation back to iPhone users.
How AltStore will bring Fortnite back to iPhone?
AltStore, developed by Riley Testut, is paving the way for independent apps on iOS. It’s one of the first alternative app stores to launch in the EU, offering a fresh avenue for developers to share their creations. AltStore doesn’t charge developers to distribute their apps, making it an attractive option for companies like Epic Games.
EU-based iPhone owners will soon have the chance to download Fortnite through AltStore. This marks a significant shift in how mobile gaming operates on iOS devices. Players will need to install AltStore first, which comes with a small annual fee of 1.50 euros due to Apple’s policies.
Epic Games’ broader strategy
Epic is not stopping at the AltStore. The company plans to bring Fortnite to other mobile stores that offer favorable terms for developers. At the same time, Epic is cutting ties with platforms it sees as restrictive, such as the Samsung Galaxy Store.
So why was Fortnite removed from iPhones and iPads? This is a very long topic, but in short, Epic Games found the App Store and Apple policies restrictive. Afterwards, some counter-lawsuits were seen and rests were taken. Although Epic Games was found right, Apple defeated Epic Games on paper. And finally, Fortnite was removed from the App Store.
And then what happened? Epic Games’ lawsuits gained traction in Europe, and Apple was subjected to lawsuits for sole agency over the App Store. It was defeated and you can now install other app stores alongside the App Store in European countries. AltStore (the rest of the story) is one of them. Epic Games is taking advantage of this. After all, just because the App Store doesn’t have Fortnite doesn’t mean the others won’t either. We are eagerly waiting for Apple to see this move and make a move like watching a player in a poker tournament.
Epic Games is also working to bring its store, the Epic Games Store, to iOS devices in the EU. While Fortnite’s return to the iPhone is exciting, there are some financial considerations to take into account. Apple will charge Epic Games a fee for every Fortnite install that exceeds a certain threshold. However, Epic’s pricing strategy aims to keep costs low for both developers and players.
Featured image credit: Fortnite
