Epic Games has teamed up with Telefónica, one of the world’s largest telecommunications providers, to revolutionize how players access mobile gaming. This partnership will see the Epic Games Store pre-installed on millions of Android devices across Telefónica’s network, changing the game for users located in Spain, the UK, Germany, and Spanish-speaking Latin America.
This collaboration, which marks the first time Epic’s mobile storefront is pre-installed on Android devices, is set to make popular games like Fortnite, Fall Guys, and Rocket League Sideswipe just a tap away for users. The growth potential of this initiative is vast, considering Telefónica’s massive customer base of over 392 million users. Traditionally, players would have to navigate through conventional app marketplaces, but this approach aims to offer significant alternatives.
With the Epic Games Store now integrated directly onto the devices sold by Telefónica, users can download anticipated titles with ease. This move is not only about convenience; it’s part of Epic Games’ broader strategy to challenge the dominance of app store giants like Google Play and the Apple App Store by offering players more options and control. Michael Modon, Epic Games’ Senior Director of Growth Partnerships, highlighted this intention, stating, “Thanks to our partnership with Telefónica, players will now be able to access the Epic Games Store and Fortnite directly on their Android devices.”
The collaboration builds on the history of joint ventures between Telefónica and Epic Games. It all began with Telefónica introducing Direct Carrier Billing for the Epic Games Store, making it easier for users to purchase games without the hassle of using credit cards. They also created an interactive music experience during the pandemic featuring Fortnite, which attracted nearly 10.8 million players, demonstrating their ability to blend gaming and entertainment.
According to Lorena Senador-Gómez, Telefónica’s Director of Partnerships and Devices, this initiative strengthens the relationship between the two companies and provides users with “high-quality, accessible, and innovative digital experiences.” The focus on innovation is important, as technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed, especially within the gaming industry.
Notably, Epic Games’ move is also seen as part of its continuing efforts to expand its reach after encountering significant hurdles with Apple and Google over app distribution policies. Epic’s struggles are well-documented, particularly after filing lawsuits against both tech giants, arguing their practices limit competition and customer choice. Recent legal rulings have favored Epic against Google; the courts ruled Google's agreements to lock down app distribution were illegal. On the other hand, the battles with Apple have not been as favorable.
Throughout this engagement, Fortnite has remained at the forefront of mobile gaming, especially among young players. By pre-installing its store on devices, Epic aims to not just expand the game’s user base, but also solidify its place as a strong contender against the likes of Call of Duty Mobile and PUBG Mobile, which currently dominate the genre.
This pre-installation feature emphasizes accessibility, effectively removing barriers users may face when searching for Epic Games products. This is critically important for mobile gamers who often prefer seamless interactions over cumbersome installations. Further, it allows Telefónica to differentiate itself from other telecom providers, creating more value for its customers.
Epic Games has also been proactive about their mobile app availability, allowing installation on devices outside of the standard marketplaces, particularly on Android through APK downloads. Meanwhile, players with iOS devices might have to wait until the second half of 2025 for a similar experience, putting Android users at the forefront of this new gaming accessibility.
The collaboration keeps growing, with both companies expressing eagerness to deepen their relationship, promising additional perks and features for mobile gamers on the Telefónica network over the coming year. With this partnership, both Telefónica and Epic Games are paving the way for an enriched gaming experience, challenging traditional norms and enhancing accessibility for millions around the globe.
Through this groundbreaking partnership, Epic Games and Telefónica are set to reshape the mobile gaming experience, and millions are expected to benefit from this initiative.