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Epic Plans to Launch Fortnite This Week Even Though It’s Not Available in the U.S. App Store

# The Awaited Comeback of Fortnite to the U.S. App Store: What You Should Know

Fortnite, the immensely popular battle royale title crafted by Epic Games, has been missing from the U.S. App Store since August 2020. This absence originated from a calculated breach of Apple’s App Store regulations when Epic introduced a direct payment system for in-game currency, V-Bucks. This action sparked a prolonged legal dispute between Epic Games and Apple, revolving around Apple’s 30% cut of in-app transactions. Recently, encouraging updates have surfaced concerning Fortnite’s prospective return, with Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney sharing insights into the current status.

## Background: The Epic Games vs. Apple Conflict

The dispute initiated when Epic Games enforced a direct payment mechanism within Fortnite, enabling players to acquire V-Bucks without utilizing Apple’s payment system. As a consequence, Apple took Fortnite off the App Store, leading to a succession of legal controversies challenging the fairness of Apple’s App Store rules. This case has attracted substantial attention, not just for its ramifications on the gaming sector but also for its wider influence on app creators and digital marketplaces.

In a recent verdict, a federal judge ruled that Apple can no longer stop developers from linking to or endorsing external payment options. This judgment represented a notable triumph for Epic Games and has motivated other firms, such as Stripe, Spotify, and Patreon, to seek avenues to avoid Apple’s charges.

## The Path to Reintroduction

As Epic Games gears up for Fortnite’s re-entry into the App Store, the firm is using its EU developer account following the termination of its original U.S. account by Apple. However, the submission process has faced holdups, and Sweeney has mentioned that Fortnite’s comeback will not be occurring before Thursday or Friday of this week. He has been open about the persistent difficulties, remarking, “Not Monday or Tuesday… Still working on the update.”

This cautious approach underscores the intricacies of maneuvering through the App Store’s submission procedures, particularly after a prolonged hiatus. Although fans are eagerly anticipating the game’s arrival, the schedule remains ambiguous.

## The Future of In-App Transactions

The modifications brought on by the recent court ruling hold extensive consequences for the app ecosystem. Developers are now investigating innovative methods to engage with their audiences and monetize their apps without falling under Apple’s commission model. Organizations like Epic Games and Spotify are already adjusting to these new regulations, which could foster a more competitive and varied app marketplace.

## What’s Ahead for Fortnite?

While Fortnite has yet to make its debut back on the App Store, anticipation is rising among enthusiasts and gamers. The game’s reappearance is projected to come with fresh features and updates, potentially reigniting interest in the title. Moreover, accessories such as the Backbone Pro game controller are set to enhance the gaming experience once Fortnite becomes available again.

In summary, the return of Fortnite to the U.S. App Store signifies not only a critical moment for Epic Games but also a crucial juncture in the ongoing conversation about app store regulations and developer rights. As the developments unfold, both players and industry analysts will be observing closely to see how this landmark case continues to influence the future of mobile gaming.

Florida Legislator Proposes Bill to Mandate Apple Allow Third-Party App Stores, Inspired by EU Framework

### The App Store Freedom Act: A Legislative Initiative for Enhanced Competition in the Mobile App Arena

In a notable effort to boost competition and consumer options within the mobile app landscape, U.S. Representative Kat Cammack (R-FL) has unveiled the **App Store Freedom Act**. This legislative proposal seeks to confront the supremacy of leading app store providers, particularly Apple, by requiring the inclusion of third-party marketplaces, akin to regulations already established within the European Union.

#### Main Features of the App Store Freedom Act

The App Store Freedom Act focuses on app store operators boasting over 100 million U.S. users, which encompasses the Apple App Store. If enacted, the bill would introduce several essential alterations to how app stores function:

1. **Third-Party App Stores**: The legislation would compel major app stores to permit users to install third-party app stores and even set them as the default choice. This could greatly broaden the array of applications accessible to consumers.

2. **Equitable Access for Developers**: Developers would secure equal access to vital development resources, allowing them to create and distribute apps without facing excessive restrictions imposed by app store providers.

3. **Alternative Payment Methods**: The bill would enable developers to utilize third-party payment systems, potentially lowering the costs associated with in-app purchases currently enforced by platforms like Apple.

4. **Authority Over Pre-Installed Applications**: Users would have the capability to remove or conceal pre-installed apps, a function that Apple currently provides but that could be further enhanced under this legislation.

5. **Safeguards Against Retaliation**: The bill aims to prevent app stores from applying policies that might penalize developers for distributing their apps outside of their ecosystems or for utilizing alternative payment options.

6. **Consequences for Non-Compliance**: Breaches of the stipulations outlined in the App Store Freedom Act could lead to sanctions from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), with civil penalties reaching up to $1 million for each violation.

#### Endorsement and Consequences

The App Store Freedom Act has received backing from the **Coalition for App Fairness**, which includes prominent companies like Epic Games, Spotify, and Match Group. These organizations have long pushed for fairer practices within the app marketplace, contending that existing policies hinder innovation and restrict consumer choices.

While the bill signifies a considerable advancement towards reforming app store operations, its short-term effect on Apple’s business model may be minimal. Recent court decisions have already elicited some adjustments to Apple’s App Store regulations, but widespread legislative action has not yet been implemented in the U.S. Additionally, Apple has been vigorously defending its practices in response to a significant antitrust lawsuit launched by the Department of Justice, which could have extensive ramifications for its operations.

#### Conclusion

The introduction of the App Store Freedom Act represents a crucial juncture in the ongoing discussion surrounding competition in the digital marketplace. By advocating for the integration of third-party app stores and ensuring equitable treatment for developers, this legislation aims to empower consumers while fostering a more competitive landscape. As the bill progresses through Congress, monitoring its potential effects on the app ecosystem and the broader consequences for tech titans like Apple will be essential.