Epic Games Seeks Fortnite's Triumphant Return to the US App Store

Epic Games Resubmits 'Fortnite' to US App Store Review

Epic Games has resubmitted the popular game Fortnite to Apple's App Store for review, potentially bringing it back to the U.S. iPhone and iPad market nearly four years after its removal in August 2020. The initial controversy began when Epic violated Apple’s App Store rules by allowing players to purchase in-game currency directly from the game, bypassing Apple's payment system. This led to the game's removal and initiated a prolonged legal battle.

In 2021, a judge ruled that Apple's anti-steering provisions were not entirely legal, but it wasn't until 2024 that these changes were enforced. Epic filed a complaint in early 2025 after Apple’s aggressive implementation of the changes, leading to a new order finding Apple in violation. Despite winning this battle, Epic has incurred over $1 billion in costs.

Apple has appealed the latest ruling, stating its right to protect business interests and intellectual property. The potential return of Fortnite to the App Store may be imminent.