Epic Games, the mastermind behind the popular game Fortnite, has finally launched its own app store, breaking away from the restrictions imposed by tech giants Apple and Google. This move allows users to have more freedom and choice when it comes to accessing and downloading games and apps on their mobile devices. The Epic Games Store is now available to Android users worldwide and to iPhone and iPad users in Europe, marking a significant shift in the app distribution landscape.
Epic Games has been at the forefront of a legal battle to challenge the monopoly maintained by Apple and Google over app stores on their respective platforms. This move comes after Epic waged legal battles and lobbied regulators to loosen the grip of these tech giants on the sale of apps for phones running their operating systems. The introduction of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) has played a significant role in forcing Apple to open up to app developers in Europe, a move that has been welcomed by many in the tech industry.
With the launch of the Epic Games Store, developers now have an alternative platform to showcase their apps and games, with better revenue-sharing terms compared to Apple and Google. Epic is aiming to attract app developers to its store by providing them with more favorable conditions and terms, in stark contrast to the challenges faced when dealing with Apple’s App Store. The goal of Epic is to reach 100 million installs of its app store on Android and iOS devices by the end of the year, a target that is ambitious but not impossible.
One of the biggest achievements of the Epic Games Store is the return of Fortnite to iPhones and iPads after being banned in 2020 for attempting to bypass Apple’s payment systems. This move marks a significant victory for Epic, as it signifies a step towards breaking away from Apple’s control over app distribution. Epic’s founder, Tim Sweeney, has been vocal about the need for more freedom and choice in the tech industry, and the launch of the Epic Games Store is a testament to that vision.
As Epic Games continues its fight to bring Fortnite back to all platforms worldwide, there is a sense of optimism in the air. The introduction of the Epic Games Store signals a new era in app distribution, with more options and opportunities for developers and users alike. The potential for growth and innovation in the tech industry is immense, and Epic Games is leading the way towards a more open and competitive market. The battle may not be over yet, but Epic’s determination and vision for a more inclusive and accessible app distribution system is a step in the right direction.
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