Apple Blocks Epic Games From Launching Third-Party App Store in EU

Epic Games was hopeful that the Digital Markets Act (DMA) would allow it to create a third-party app storefront for iPhone users in the 27 EU countries. However, Apple has blocked this move, citing revenge for previous criticisms made by Epic against the tech giant.

Earlier today, Apple closed Epic’s developer account in what Epic called a “serious violation” of the DMA. This action follows Apple shutting down Epic’s developer account in the U.S. and other markets in 2020 after the game developer included a link to its own in-app payment platform in the popular Fortnite game, violating App Store regulations.

Despite an epic lawsuit that resulted in Apple making it easier for developers to link customers with third-party payment platforms, Epic was not permitted to install its own app store on iPhones. Despite recent changes under the DMA, Apple closed Epic’s developer account in the EU, attributing it to criticisms made by Epic’s CEO Tim Sweeney.

In response to Apple’s actions, Epic expressed disappointment, stating that Apple is limiting competition and showing other developers the consequences of challenging their practices. Additionally, Epic criticized Apple’s new fees for certain developers, including the Core Technology Fee charging €0.50 per first annual install over a 1 million threshold from iOS apps distributed through alternative app marketplaces.

Apple defended its decision by stating that it had the right to remove Epic’s entities from its platform due to past contractual breaches. The tech giant emphasized that it acted based on previous rulings regarding Epic’s behavior.

Overall, this ongoing dispute between Apple and Epic Games highlights the challenges faced by developers navigating app store regulations and competition within the telecommunications industry.