When is Fortnite Coming Back to Apple in 2021?
As a gamer and content specialist, I understand the pain of being unable to play Fortnite on Apple devices. If you’re here, you’re probably wondering the same thing: When is Fortnite coming back to Apple in 2021? In this article, we’ll explore what happened between Apple and Fortnite, the latest news on the topic, and what we can expect for the future of Fortnite on Apple.
The Apple-Fortnite Controversy: A Brief History
To understand why Fortnite is currently unavailable on Apple devices, we have to go back to August 2020. Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, introduced a new payment system within the game that bypassed Apple’s App Store payment system. This move violated Apple’s developer guidelines, which state that all in-app purchases must go through Apple’s payment system, which takes a 30% cut.
In response, Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store. Epic Games then filed a lawsuit against Apple, claiming that Apple’s App Store monopoly was anti-competitive and monopolistic. The lawsuit is ongoing and has gained attention from both the gaming and legal communities.
The Latest News on When Fortnite is Coming Back to Apple in 2021
As of June 2021, Fortnite is still unavailable on Apple devices. However, there have been some recent developments in the lawsuit between Epic Games and Apple that could potentially lead to Fortnite’s return to the App Store.
In May 2021, a judge ruled that Epic Games was in breach of contract when it introduced the new payment system within Fortnite. The judge ordered Epic Games to pay damages to Apple for violating the developer guidelines. However, the judge also ruled that Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases was anti-competitive and that Apple must allow developers to direct users to alternate payment options.
This ruling could potentially lead to Fortnite’s return to the App Store, as Epic Games would be able to provide a direct payment option for users. However, it’s important to note that the ruling is currently being appealed by both Epic Games and Apple, and the timeline for a final decision is uncertain.
What Will the Future Hold for Fortnite on Apple?
It’s difficult to say what the future of Fortnite on Apple will look like. The ongoing lawsuit between Epic Games and Apple could potentially have significant implications for the app industry as a whole. However, there are a few possible outcomes for Fortnite specifically:
- Fortnite could return to the App Store if Epic Games implements a direct payment option that complies with Apple’s developer guidelines.
- Fortnite could continue to be unavailable on Apple devices if the appeals process upholds the initial ruling.
- Epic Games could develop a separate version of Fortnite that is downloadable outside of the App Store, similar to how Android users currently access the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Apple remove Fortnite from the App Store?
Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store in August 2020 after Epic Games introduced a new payment system within the game that bypassed Apple’s App Store payment system.
When will Fortnite be back on Apple?
As of June 2021, there is no official timeline for Fortnite’s return to Apple devices. The ongoing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple makes the situation uncertain.
Can I still play Fortnite on Apple devices?
If you previously downloaded Fortnite on an Apple device, you can still play the game. However, you cannot update the game or download it on a new device.
Conclusion
The future of Fortnite on Apple devices is uncertain. While there have been recent developments in the lawsuit between Epic Games and Apple, it’s unclear what the final outcome will be. As gamers, we can only hope that a resolution is reached soon so that we can all get back to playing Fortnite on our favorite devices.