# Epic Games vs. Apple: The Continuing Story of Fortnite’s Comeback to the App Store
In a notable turn of events last week, Epic Games refiled its widely-played game, Fortnite, with the U.S. App Store. This action followed a court verdict that determined Apple could not enforce a 27% fee on transactions conducted through outside payment services in the App Store. Nevertheless, the path to reinstating Fortnite on the platform has been far from simple.
## Overview of the Conflict
The dispute between Epic Games and Apple traces back to 2020 when Epic implemented a direct payment option in Fortnite, bypassing Apple’s in-app purchase framework. This initiated a legal confrontation over App Store regulations, with Epic contending that Apple’s commission setup was anti-competitive. In a recent judgment, the court partially supported Epic, allowing for the chance of external payment alternatives, which spurred Epic to try to reintroduce Fortnite.
## The Resubmission Journey
Following the court’s ruling, Epic Games grouped the U.S. and EU versions of Fortnite for resubmission. However, the company encountered delays while waiting for feedback from Apple. On May 15, Epic released a letter from Apple that clarified the app’s current status.
In the correspondence, Apple conveyed that it would not reinstate Epic’s developer account or permit Fortnite to return to the U.S. App Store until the ongoing legal proceedings were resolved. Apple stressed that the same rationale applied to the app submission, signifying it would not proceed until the Ninth Circuit made a ruling on a pending request for a partial stay of the new injunction.
## Apple’s Stance
Apple’s correspondence clearly articulated its position: it is not prepared to reconsider the decision regarding Epic’s developer account until all legal matters are conclusively settled. The company proposed that Epic submit the U.S. and EU versions of Fortnite separately, reflecting a preference for managing the submissions individually rather than as a combined package.
The letter states, “If Epic thinks there are factual or legal developments that justify further examination of this stance, please inform us in writing.” This opens the possibility for Epic to provide new arguments or evidence that could sway Apple’s decision.
## Epic’s Reaction
In response to Apple’s refusal to proceed with the Fortnite submission, Epic Games has sought judicial intervention. The company has urged the courts to require Apple to allow Fortnite to relaunch on the U.S. App Store under the new regulations set by the recent court ruling. This legal step underscores Epic’s determination to bring Fortnite back to its vast player base in the U.S. market.
## Final Thoughts
The continuing clash between Epic Games and Apple underscores the intricacies of app store regulations and their wider ramifications for developers and users alike. As the legal proceedings advance, both parties remain at an impasse, with Epic advocating for a resolution that would enable Fortnite’s return to the App Store. The resolution of this conflict could establish a critical precedent for the operation of app stores and the relationship between developers and platform providers moving forward.
For those keen on tracking this developing narrative, the complete letter from Apple can be accessed [here](https://cdn2.unrealengine.com/05-15-25-letter-from-apple-14bad27bb985.pdf). As the situation evolves, it will be essential to observe the legal context and its ramifications for the gaming sector and digital trade as a whole.
