The recent launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS in the European Union has reignited the ongoing feud between Apple and Epic Games. Epic wants to make its store more developer and user-friendly, with lower fees and more flexibility than Apple’s App Store.
This process is getting out of hand because it’s been going on for so long and new information is constantly being added. But nothing changes for the user.
Apple challenges Epic Games for developers
Epic’s new store could be a great option for developers looking to avoid Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases, but there are some practical considerations. Apple‘s fees for developers using third-party app stores on iOS are still quite high, which may deter many from making the switch. While Epic offers lower commission rates, Apple’s extra fees, such as a 50-cent installation fee and a 10% commission on external purchases, make it harder for developers to make money. These fees apply even to apps distributed through alternative marketplaces like Epic’s, making it difficult for developers to see a net benefit.
Apple recently lost a case before the European competition board, and its exclusive use of the App Store on its phones has made it appear to be the sole ambassador. This opened the door for other companies to open their stores on iOS or iPadOS devices. Soon after, the Altstore opened and Epic Games relaunched Fortnite (currently not available on the App Store) on this store.
Epic Games’ fight against Apple’s unilateralism
While Epic Games is willing to take on these costs for a high-profile game like Fortnite, smaller developers may find the financial burden too great. Apple’s fee structure seems more suited to large companies with a lot of revenue, leaving smaller developers with a difficult decision. Despite all the work Epic has done to make its platform more developer-friendly, the combination of Apple’s fees and Epic’s current 12% commission could deter third-party developers from listing their games on the new iOS store.
It’s unclear what the future holds for the Epic Games Store on iOS. Despite the excitement surrounding its launch, it’s unclear whether the Epic Games Store on iOS will catch on. Epic has begun talks with some of the top mobile developers, but many have said they’re concerned about whether it’s financially feasible to move to the new platform. With big names like EA, King, and Supercell still on the sidelines, Epic’s store doesn’t yet have anything other than its games to be a real alternative to the App Store. Epic Games, which has been giving away free games weekly to take on Steam on PC, could also take on Apple commissions from developers in the battle against Apple.
Featured image credit: Furkan Demirkaya / Midjourney
