Apple has unblocked Epic Games’ developer account in the App Store, allowing the company to launch its own iOS app store in the European Union (EU) and bring Fortnite and other games back to the iPhone.
According to Neowin, the blocking of Epic Games’ developer account in the App Store was implemented by Apple on March 6, then on March 7, the European Commission (EC) began investigating this situation for violations. Tao Market Law Skilled digital (DMA) or not
In its announcement, Epic Games said: “Apple has notified us and confirmed with the EC that it will reinstate our developer account. This is a strong signal for developers that the EC will act quickly to ensure the enforcement of the DMA and deal with companies that refuse to comply. We are proceeding as planned to launch the Epic Games Store and bring Fortnite back to iOS in Europe.”
Commenting on the incident on his X page, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney said: “DMA experienced its first big test when Apple banned Epic Games Sweden from competing with the App Store, and DMA just won a big victory First. Following the EC’s operational investigation, Apple informed the Commission and Epic that they would restore access to us to bring Fortnite and launch the Epic Games Store to Europe. It was a battle. Big win for the European legal order, for the EC, and for the freedom of developers around the world to speak their minds .”
Back on March 6, Epic Games said its developer account on the App Store in the EU had been blocked, with Apple justifying it by saying “Epic can break the rules like before – a hint to the company arbitrarily adding a third-party payment system to Fortnite – so decided to kick Epic out of the App Store.” Meanwhile, the head of Epic Games assured Apple that his company will comply with all current and future agreements with Apple, and is ready to provide guarantees.
Now, in confirmation to 9to5Mac, Apple says that it has held additional discussions with Epic and received appropriate assurances from the company not to violate the rules. As a result, Epic’s Swedish subsidiary was allowed to re-sign its developer agreement and join the “Apple Developer Program”.