Table of Contents
[ad_1]
Right now, Epic Games is waging a war against Apple and its App Store fees. As a result of those decisions, the popular battle royale game Fortnite is not available on iOS devices. But Apple’s ready to welcome the game back.
Of course Apple would like Fortnite back on the App Store — it’s a popular game, and players are more than willing to fork over cash for in-app purchases. Apple gets a cut of that profit, so reinstating the battle royale game in the App Store is an important next step. But, just like Epic Games, Apple is not going to budge on the current matter at hand. So the only way Epic can get Fortnite back on the App Store (and get updates released for the game) is to follow the guidelines imposed by Apple.
Here’s where we are right now: Late last night, Judge Gonzalez-Rogers made a decision that ultimately sides with both Apple and Epic Games. On the one hand, the judge determined Apple doesn’t have to put Fortnite back in the App Store right now as Epic continues to defy the guidelines. However, the judge also ruled that Apple can’t block the Unreal Engine from being distributed, so other developers won’t lose their tools.
Basically, Judge Gonzalez-Rogers made sure the Unreal Engine development tool isn’t revoked by Apple — even if Apple can still revoke Epic Games’ developer accounts. (Apple is threatening to do just that on Friday, August 28.)
Apple has issued a statement on the decision handed down by the judge, shared on Twitter by Mark Gurman today. Here’s that statement:
We thank the court for recognizing that Epic’s problem is entirely self-inflicted and is in their power to resolve. Our very first priority is making sure App Store users have a great experience in a safe and trusted environment, including iPhone users who play Fortnite and who are looking forward to the game’s next season. We agree with Judge Gonzalez-Rogers that ‘the sensible way to proceed’ is for Epic to comply with the App Store guidelines and continue to operate while the case proceeds. If Epic takes the steps the judge has recommended, we will gladly welcome Fortnite back onto iOS. We look forward to making our case to the court in September.
Now, unsurprisingly, Apple says it’s ready to welcome back Fortnite just as soon as Epic’s ready to follow the rules again. And, indeed, that’s what the judge suggested should happen. Epic is choosing to keep Fortnite out of the App Store while the case against Apple continues, a choice it can change at any moment.
Which would certainly make sense, because as Apple notes in that statement the next season of Fortnite begins on Thursday, August 27. As it stands right now, iOS users are going to miss out on at least the start of that season, and it could extend beyond that.
So, a lot has happened. Here’s the timeline of how it all looks as of right now.
So, here we are. Which “side” are you on in all of this?
[ad_2]
The Fox News app provides users with easy access to breaking news, live coverage, and…
Malia Manocherian’s story is one of passion, purpose, and perseverance. As an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and…
With the rise of social media, anonymous Instagram story viewers have become increasingly popular. InsAnony…
In an era where live streaming has transformed from a niche activity to a mainstream…
If you’ve ever tried to type a message in all caps on Twitch and noticed…
In the world of commercial lending, Kennedy Funding has established itself as a key player…