Epic Games has taken a significant step towards the potential return of its blockbuster game, Fortnite, to Apple's iOS platform. On Friday, May 9, 2025, the official X account for Fortnite confirmed that the game has been submitted to the iOS App Store for review by Apple. This development comes after a lengthy legal battle that has kept Fortnite off iPhones since 2020.
The ongoing dispute between Epic Games and Apple stems from Apple's stringent App Store policies, which include a hefty 30 percent commission on in-app purchases. Epic Games challenged these rules by integrating direct payment options into Fortnite, which led to Apple removing the game from its platform and terminating Epic’s developer account.
In the wake of a recent court ruling that found Apple in contempt, the tech giant has been forced to adapt its policies. The ruling indicated that Apple could no longer charge commissions on link-outs to external payment options, paving the way for Fortnite's potential return. However, while most apps are typically reviewed by Apple within 24 hours, the unique circumstances surrounding Fortnite's submission mean that its approval timeline remains uncertain.
Alongside Epic Games, Spotify is also testing the waters of Apple’s newly revised App Store policies. On the same day, Spotify submitted an updated version of its app, which aims to allow users to purchase individual audiobooks directly and offer its Premium subscribers the option to buy additional listening hours beyond the 15 free hours they receive each month. This move follows Apple's recent approval of the Amazon Kindle app, which has now added a "Buy Book" button for the first time.
These changes in Apple's App Store policies are a direct result of a federal judge's ruling that mandated the company to be more competitive regarding payment processing. Previously, Apple had required developers to seek special permission to link to external payment sites and imposed a 27 percent commission on web-based sales, down from the standard 30 percent. The judge's ruling is expected to open doors for more developers, allowing them to explore new business models and revenue streams.
As Epic Games and Spotify navigate this new landscape, the implications of these policy changes could be far-reaching. For larger companies like Epic and Spotify, the ability to bypass Apple's commissions could significantly enhance their profit margins. However, this shift may also intensify competition among developers, as newcomers may struggle to establish themselves in an evolving market.
Fortnite's absence from iOS has been a notable aspect of the ongoing legal saga between Epic and Apple. The game has remained available on iPhones in Europe through Epic's own store, thanks to the Digital Markets Act, which permits third-party app stores. Additionally, players have been able to access Fortnite on iPhones and iPads through various cloud gaming services.
With the submission of Fortnite for review, the stakes are high for both Epic Games and Apple. The outcome could reshape the dynamics of app development on iOS, marking a potential turning point in the App Store ecosystem. While Apple is appealing the contempt ruling, the pressure to comply with court directives may lead to a more open and competitive environment for app developers.
The landscape of mobile gaming and app development is evolving rapidly, and as Epic Games pushes for Fortnite's return, the gaming community is watching closely. The outcome of this submission could not only impact Fortnite but also set a precedent for how developers interact with Apple's App Store in the future.
As the situation unfolds, both Epic Games and Spotify are poised to capitalize on the new rules, potentially revolutionizing how users experience apps and make purchases on their iPhones. This moment signifies not just a legal victory for Epic Games but also a broader shift in the relationship between developers and platform holders.
In the coming days, as Apple reviews Fortnite's submission, the anticipation builds. Will Fortnite finally make its long-awaited comeback to the iOS platform? Only time will tell, but the implications of this legal battle and its resulting policy changes are likely to resonate throughout the tech industry for years to come.
