Epic Games' flagship title Fortnite remains unavailable on Apple devices in the European Union and United States as of Friday, reigniting a high-stakes legal battle between the Tencent-backed studio and tech giant Apple. The dispute centers on App Store policies and antitrust compliance, with implications for digital markets across Asia and beyond.
Apple confirmed it requested Epic Sweden – the game’s European subsidiary – to resubmit an app update excluding U.S. storefront features to avoid global disruptions. However, Epic alleges the move constitutes retaliation for its ongoing antitrust challenges. The studio filed a contempt motion in a California court late Friday, demanding Apple comply with previous rulings to allow Fortnite's return.
This conflict traces back to 2020 when Apple removed Fortnite after Epic introduced a direct payment system bypassing Apple’s 30% commission. While the game briefly returned to EU devices last year under Digital Markets Act (DMA) pressure, its current exclusion highlights unresolved tensions between developers and platform operators.
China’s Tencent, which holds a 40% stake in Epic Games, adds an Asian dimension to this global tech showdown. The outcome could influence how regional regulators approach digital marketplace regulations, particularly as Asian governments increase scrutiny of Big Tech practices.
Market analysts suggest the standoff may accelerate alternative app distribution models in Asia, where mobile gaming dominates digital entertainment. With over 400 million registered Fortnite players worldwide, the dispute’s resolution could set precedents affecting China’s thriving game development sector and Southeast Asia’s fast-growing digital economies.
