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Fortnite, the widely popular multiplayer shooter game developed by Epic Games, has officially returned to iPhones within the European Union and is now accessible globally on Android devices, Reuters reported. This marks the end of a four-year hiatus, during which the game was removed from major app stores due to disputes over payment policies.

In August 2020, Forbes found that both Apple and Google removed Fortnite from their respective app stores after Epic Games launched a direct payment feature, bypassing the platforms' standard commission fees of up to 30%.

From there, this action led to a series of legal battles challenging these payment policies and the control exerted by app store operators over developers. Earlier this year, VCPost reported that Epic Games' last move was to challenge Apple's demand to change their interface.

Why Fortnite is Back in Android and iOS

Now, the European Union's new Digital Markets Act (DMA), aimed at increasing competition in the digital market, has facilitated Fortnite's return to iOS devices in the EU.

However, Apple has continued to block Fortnite from its app store outside Europe. Epic has also noted that installing Fortnite on iOS devices involves a complex 15-step process, potentially deterring some users.

Epic Games, backed by China's Tencent, has praised the European Commission for enforcing regulations that support competitive practices and prevent monopolistic behavior by major tech companies.

For Epic Games, this is the best opportunity to relaunch its game store, which will feature Fortnite along with other titles like Rocket League Sideswipe and Fall Guys for mobile.

The company anticipates massive growth, in return, hoping to add 100 million new mobile users by the end of the year.

Looking ahead, CEO Tim Sweeney emphasized the long-term benefits of regaining market access, despite the estimated loss of over $1 billion in revenue during the game's absence.

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Epic Games