Apple approves Epic Games Store for iOS following rejections

Apple has finally given its nod to Epic Games Store for iOS after rejecting it twice previously, marking a significant step in the ongoing saga between the tech giants. This decision comes amidst Epic Games’ persistent efforts and its recent concerns shared with the European Commission regarding potential Digital Markets Act (DMA) violations by Apple.

Apple has told some press channels that, though they have approved our current EGS iOS App for notarization, they are still demanding Epic change the user interface in a future version. Epic is disputing this. https://t.co/fKHWbhBRvj

— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) July 6, 2024

Initially, Apple’s stringent guidelines required Epic Games Store, like other software, to undergo notarization—a process that ensures apps are scanned for security issues and code-signing problems before they can be distributed outside the App Store. Despite meeting these technical requirements, Epic faced rejections based on what Apple deemed as similarities between Epic’s “Install” button and Apple’s own “Get” button, along with labeling for in-app purchases that Apple found problematic.

Epic Games responded by asserting that their interface design adhered to standard practices observed across major app platforms and aimed to provide clarity for mobile users. Labeling Apple’s rejection as arbitrary and obstructive, Epic took its grievances to the European Commission, highlighting concerns over Apple’s compliance with the DMA, which aims to promote fair competition and consumer choice within the digital marketplace.

3/3 Apple's rejection is arbitrary, obstructive, and in violation of the DMA, and we've shared our concerns with the European Commission. Barring further roadblocks from Apple, we remain ready to launch in the Epic Games Store and Fortnite on iOS in the EU in the next couple of…

— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) July 5, 2024

In a recent development, Apple reversed its decision and accepted Epic’s notarization submission, allowing Epic Games Store and potentially Fortnite to proceed with their iOS launch plans, particularly in the European Union. However, the conflict is not entirely resolved, as Apple reportedly still demands changes to Epic’s user interface in future updates, a demand that Epic contests vigorously.

The approval comes on the heels of the EU’s scrutiny under the Digital Markets Act, which challenges Apple’s control over app distribution and payments on its devices. This legislation is expected to facilitate greater flexibility for app developers by permitting alternative app stores and payment methods, potentially reshaping the landscape of iOS app distribution.

Earlier this year, Epic Games had formally accused Apple of breaching the DMA by impeding its efforts to introduce competing app stores on iOS. This ongoing dispute underscores broader regulatory efforts globally to address concerns over monopolistic practices and to ensure a fair playing field for all participants in the digital economy.

As Epic Games and Apple navigate these regulatory and competitive challenges, the outcome will likely influence the future dynamics of app distribution and competition within the iOS ecosystem. The resolution of these issues could pave the way for greater innovation and consumer choice in the mobile app market, benefiting users and developers alike.