Fortnite Back on App Store After 5 Years of Legal Win Over Apple
Fortnite is now officially back on iOS devices, which means iPhone and iPad users can also install this popular game again from the App Store. This comeback has been possible after a 5-year-long legal case in which Epic Games fought in court against Apple.
we back fam https://t.co/X14bCXoylB
— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) May 20, 2025
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, announced on social media: “We back fam.” Fortnite immediately took a place in the list of top free games on the US App Store after this.
What happened to Fortnite in 2020?
In the year 2020, Epic Games introduced a payment method within Fortnite that skipped Apple’s in-app purchase, which is purchased through the App Store. Apple had a problem with this because it takes a 30% commission on every payment. In response, Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store.
Since then, a legal case has been going on between Epic and Apple. The court recently asked Apple to change its rules and allow third-party payment options. The final decision came on April 30, 2025, and then on May 20, 2025, Fortnite officially returned on the App Store.
Fortnite’s comeback was not that easy
When Epic submitted Fortnite back to the App Store, Apple did not review it at first. There was a delay of 5 days. Epic then sought help from the court. The judge clearly said that Apple can solve this issue even without a hearing.
Both companies later gave a joint statement that “all issues have been resolved.” Then Fortnite was re-launched on the App Store.
In which countries is Fortnite available?
- Fortnite is back on the App Store in the USA and Europe
- It is not yet available in the UK as the UK is no longer a part of the EU
- It is still banned in Brazil and Canada, but after the US ruling, it is expected there soon too
How to install Fortnite on iPhone?
If you use an iOS device, installing Fortnite is simple
- Open the App Store
- Search for Fortnite
- Make sure the developer of the app is Epic Games
- Tap the ‘Get’ button and let it download
- The app can be a little heavy, so make sure to check the space on your phone
To avoid fake apps, download only verified apps.
A New Issue: AI Darth Vader Controversy
Fortnite’s AI Darth Vader character used inappropriate language in the game, after which Epic gave a quick fix. But the actors’ union SAG-AFTRA has filed an unfair labour practice complaint against Epic. Due to this, the company is now also facing a new legal issue.
Fortnite back on App Store, but challenges still remain
The return of Fortnite on the App Store is a big win for Epic. This is good news for iPhone and iPad users, but availability is still pending in other countries. Along with this, AI-related problems are also coming up as a new headache for the company.
Still, coming back after 5 years is a big thing for the fans.
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