Apple changed its mind about ending Epic Games’ Swedish developer account. This happened after the European Commission quickly looked into Apple’s actions, which seemed like they might break the new Digital Markets Act (DMA). The Act aims to encourage competition and options in digital markets controlled by big tech companies.
The dispute started when Apple canceled Epic Games’ developer account, which had been approved in February 2024. Epic Games wanted to use the account to introduce its Epic Games Store and the game Fortnite to iOS devices in Europe, taking advantage of the DMA’s rule for Apple to permit competing app stores. Epic alleged that Apple was striking back at the company due to its lawsuits and public criticism of Apple’s App Store policies.
Apple terminated its agreement with Epic, stating that Epic’s public criticism of Apple’s proposed DMA compliance plan and concerns about security led to the decision. In layman’s terms, they say that because Epic’s CEO was saying a lot of things against Apple’s reluctance to follow the law. Apple basically said the CEO’s actions made them think Epic wouldn’t follow the rules. It’s clear retaliation against Epic Games.
Epic argued that the reasons were unjustified, citing a history of collaboration with Apple and the presence of multiple apps on the App Store. They also pointed out Apple technologies’ use of Unreal Engine. Then, the European Commission stepped in because Apple did not have a good reason to take down Epic’s account.
The European Commission promptly responded, leading to Apple reinstating Epic’s developer account. It’s hard to side with Apple when all they’re doing is making things difficult for Epic Games for speaking up against Apple. In my opinion, removing the account looks tyrannical because the laws stated they needed to give Epic Games an account. To the outsider looking in, it looks like Apple treats Epic Games unfairly.
This highlights the power of the DMA in regulating tech giants. Epic Games sees this as a win for the European rule of law and a sign that the DMA can effectively ensure fair market practices. With the reinstatement, Epic can launch its Epic Games Store in Europe and bring Fortnite back to iOS devices in the region. This means that Fortnite is definitely returning.
