Fortnite Blocked Again on iOS as Apple Prevents Return, Delivering Fresh Setback to Epic Games
Apple blocks Fortnite’s return to iOS by terminating Epic’s developer account, marking a fresh setback amid their ongoing legal and regulatory battle.
Epic Games has once again hit a roadblock in its ongoing battle with Apple, as the tech giant has blocked Fortnite from returning to the iOS App Store. This move marks yet another chapter in the long-running dispute between the two companies and represents a significant setback for Epic’s efforts to reintroduce the popular battle royale game to Apple devices.
Apple Denies Fortnite's Comeback on iOS
Epic had recently attempted to bring Fortnite back to iPhones and iPads through its Swedish developer account, hoping to re-enter the iOS ecosystem in compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) enforced by the European Union. However, Apple has reportedly terminated the associated developer account, effectively blocking any path for Fortnite’s reinstatement on the platform — at least for now.
Epic Games Responds
In a public statement, Epic accused Apple of acting in bad faith and violating the spirit of the DMA, which aims to create fairer digital markets. The gaming company claims it was trying to offer Fortnite via third-party app stores or alternative distribution methods made possible under new EU regulations.
“Apple is once again showing that it will do whatever it takes to control the ecosystem and shut out competition,” Epic said in its statement.
Ongoing Legal and Regulatory Tensions
This latest development underscores the ongoing tension between Epic Games and Apple, which began in 2020 when Epic introduced a direct payment option in Fortnite to bypass Apple's 30% App Store fee. That move led to the game being removed from the App Store and ignited a legal battle over app store policies and competition.
Despite partial legal wins for both sides over the years, Fortnite has remained absent from iOS — a platform with a massive player base Epic is eager to regain access to.
What This Means for iOS Users
For now, Fortnite remains unavailable to iOS users, even in EU countries where alternative app stores were expected to offer a potential workaround. With the developer account disabled, Epic’s options appear limited, unless regulatory bodies step in to enforce broader compliance from Apple.
