**Fortnite’s Comeback and Current Challenges on iOS 26 Beta**
Fortnite has made a much-awaited comeback to the U.S. App Store last month after being absent for five years due to the ongoing legal dispute between Epic Games and Apple. However, players using iPhones and iPads operating on the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 beta are experiencing considerable problems, as the game has become nearly unplayable on these devices.
Epic Games has recently launched a new version of Fortnite that features a mobile-focused mode named Blitz Royale. Regrettably, this update has triggered immediate crashes for users on the iOS 26 beta, causing the game to be unplayable. Gamers have taken to social media to voice their frustrations, speculating whether the crashes are caused by a bug or if they are a deliberate action by Epic Games. Currently, the Fortnite Status account on X has not acknowledged the issue.
Typically, app incompatibility arises when users update their operating systems, but in this instance, the updated version of Fortnite is at fault, as the prior version was functioning correctly with the new OS. Before the update, Fortnite was compatible with iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, which has led to confusion among players.
For those impacted, the only immediate options are to either downgrade from iOS 26 to iOS 18 or await a fix from Epic Games. It is essential for players to have the latest version of the app, since Fortnite requires all players in its online multiplayer environment to be on the same version.
In the interim, players can anticipate the new Blitz Royale mode, which delivers a distinct 32-player Battle Royale experience tailored for mobile devices. Matches are short, lasting five minutes or less, making it perfect for gaming on the go. In Blitz Royale, every player begins with the same random Medallion or weapon on a compact map, ensuring fair play. Players can enhance their experience by eliminating opponents and surviving Storm circles to gain powerful weapons and power-ups, referred to as “Boons.”
Blitz Royale will be available until July 15, with a chance of returning later featuring new gameplay elements, maps, and rewards. For the time being, Fortnite is still accessible on the U.S. App Store for iPhone and iPad users, provided they have a minimum of 4GB of RAM and are running iOS 18.
As the community awaits a solution to the current issues, players are encouraged to remain updated about news from Epic Games and the Fortnite Status account.
