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Apple reinstates Epic Games’ iOS developer account
Apple has reinstated Epic Games’ iOS developer account after previously banning it, allowing the game publisher to resume its third-party App Store ambitions.
Legal battle between Apple and Epic Games
Following a lengthy legal battle between Apple and Epic Games over the tech giant’s allegedly uncompetitive App Store policies, Apple banned the game developer’s account on March 6, calling them “verifiably untrustworthy” in a shared letter.
European Union’s Digital Markets Act
The ban occurred just one day before the European Union’s Digital Markets Act came into effect, requiring Apple to allow users access to third-party app stores on iOS in the E.U. Epic Games intended to open their own storefront on iOS under this new system, allowing Fortnite to return to the platform after being banned in 2020.
Apple’s reversal
Apple likely reversed its decision due to potential fines and additional scrutiny from legislators, with European Commissioner Thierry Breton taking credit for Apple’s change of heart.
Tim Sweeney reacts to Apple’s decision
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney declared victory following Apple’s decision, stating that Apple has relented and will restore access for Epic Games. This move signals the enforcement of the Digital Markets Act and will allow Epic Games Store to launch in Europe under the new law.
Impact on the gaming industry
Epic Games’ role as a high profile test case for the E.U.’s new regulations has led to a swift policy change from Apple, showcasing the region’s muscular stance on tech giants.
Apple’s commitment to the European Commission and Epic Games: Apple has committed to reinstating Epic Games’ developer account, showing that the European Commission will act swiftly to enforce the Digital Markets Act and hold gatekeepers accountable. Epic Games is proceeding with plans to launch the Epic Games Store and bring Fortnite back to iOS in Europe.
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