Apple approves Epic Games’ marketplace app in Europe

Apple said on Friday it had agreed to Epic Games’ games marketplace app on iPhones and iPads in Europe after the “Fortnite” maker escalated its rivalry with the technology firm, blaming it for delaying its efforts to set up a games store on the devices.

Apple announced on Friday that it has approved Epic Games’ marketplace app for iPhones and iPads in Europe.

This decision comes after the “Fortnite” creator accused Apple of obstructing its efforts to establish a games store on iOS devices. The approval pertains to the Epic Sweden AB Marketplace and is unrelated to the already approved Fortnite app.

Background of the Dispute

Epic Games has been vocal about Apple’s stringent control over the iOS app ecosystem, a point of contention for many app developers and antitrust regulators.

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Before this approval, Apple had twice rejected Epic’s documents for the Epic Games Store. The rejections were based on the design similarities of certain buttons and labels to those used in Apple’s App Store. Epic defended its design choices, stating they followed standard conventions used across multiple platforms.

Epic’s Response

In a series of posts on X, Epic criticized Apple’s rejection as “arbitrary, obstructive, and in violation of the DMA (Digital Markets Act).” Epic has raised its concerns with the European Commission, which recently initiated an investigation into Apple’s app validation processes and the possibility of sideloading alternative app stores.

Legal Battles and Regulatory Pressure

Epic and Apple have been embroiled in a legal battle since 2020, stemming from Epic’s allegations that Apple’s 30% commission on in-app payments violates U.S. antitrust laws. Earlier this year, Apple proposed changes to its App Store policies to comply with the DMA directives, which came into force in March.

These changes included allowing alternative app stores on iPhones and providing an opt-out from using the in-app payments system. However, Apple also introduced a “core technology fee,” which has been criticized by several developers as exploitative.

Implications of the Approval

The approval of the Epic Games’ marketplace app in Europe is a significant development in the ongoing dispute between Epic and Apple.

It highlights the growing scrutiny Apple faces from regulators and the tech community regarding its App Store policies. This move could set a precedent for other developers seeking more freedom and fairer terms on Apple’s platform.

Conclusion

Apple’s decision to approve Epic Games’ marketplace app in Europe marks a pivotal moment in their ongoing feud. As regulatory pressures mount and legal battles continue, the tech industry will be closely watching how these developments shape the future of app store ecosystems and digital marketplaces.