Nearly four years after its removal from the App Store, Fortnite could be making its comeback on iPhones. On Friday, Epic Games confirmed it has submitted the game to Apple’s App Store, following a favorable court ruling last month that challenged Apple’s payment restrictions.
The long-running legal fight began in 2020 when Epic added a direct payment link to its app, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission. In response, Apple banned Fortnite from the App Store, prompting a lawsuit that escalated into a global legal and regulatory battle.
Legal Victory Clears a Path
Epic’s decision comes on the heels of a key court ruling in April, where a judge sided with the game maker in a contempt case. “Last month’s ruling, a victory for Epic Games, said Apple was not allowed to charge a commission on link-outs or dictate if the links look like buttons, paving the way for Fortnite’s return,” the company stated.
This means developers can now direct users to their own websites for purchases without interference or fees from Apple. While Apple is appealing the ruling, the decision has created a legal opening for Fortnite to return to iOS.
Apple Yet to Approve Submission
Despite the submission, it’s not yet certain Fortnite will return to iPhones. Apple still has the power to reject the app, and has not publicly responded to the submission. “Apple could still reject Fortnite’s submission. An Apple representative did not respond to CNBC’s request for comment. Apple is appealing last month’s contempt ruling.”
This uncertainty keeps Epic’s future on the platform in question, though the company is hopeful the ruling will stand and force Apple’s hand.
Ripple Effects Across the App Ecosystem
The implications of the ruling are already shifting the economic model for iOS apps. Developers have quickly adapted, launching updates that leverage the freedom to bypass Apple’s in-app payment system. Apple had previously offered a workaround—allowing link-outs but applying a reduced 27% commission—which the court effectively blocked.
“Developers including Amazon and Spotify have already updated their apps to avoid Apple’s commissions and direct customers to their own websites for payment,” the report noted. For instance, the Kindle app now displays a “Get Book” button that links users directly to Amazon’s site—an option previously not allowed.
A Global Legal and Regulatory Battle
The App Store feud isn’t limited to Apple. Epic Games has also sued Google over similar policies related to its Play Store on Android. These battles have played out in courtrooms and regulatory hearings across the world.
Meanwhile, Fortnite has already reappeared on iPhones in Europe through Epic’s own store, thanks to the EU’s Digital Markets Act. That legislation requires Apple to permit third-party app stores, something not yet mandated in the U.S.
“Fortnite has been available for iPhones in Europe since last year through Epic Games’ store,” Epic noted. Additionally, U.S. players have been able to access the game through cloud gaming services.
The Future of Fortnite—and the App Store
Epic’s submission marks a major turning point in its standoff with Apple. If approved, it could signal broader changes in how apps are distributed and monetized on Apple’s tightly controlled platform.
The case remains a flashpoint in ongoing debates about antitrust enforcement, developer rights, and platform power. Whether Fortnite is accepted back onto the App Store will have ramifications well beyond gaming—and could redefine the economics of the mobile internet.
