Epic Takes Legal Action Against Apple, Seeks Reinstate of Fortnite on App Store

Epic Games Petitions Court to Compel Apple to Reintroduce Fortnite on the App Store

Background

Epic Games submitted a letter to U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, accusing Apple of refusing to consider its submission for Fortnite, a popular video game. This move is seen by Epic as an attempt by Apple to circumvent the court's injunction and undermine the judge’s authority.

Key Points

• Accusation: Epic claims Apple is avoiding compliance with the court's previous orders.
• Legal Request: Epic seeks an order enforcing the injunction, finding Apple in contempt of court, and requiring Apple to accept compliant Epic apps, including Fortnite.
• Tim Cook’s Testimony: During a trial, Tim Cook stated that having Fortnite back on the App Store would benefit users.
• Epic’s Compliance: Epic asserts it has complied with all of Apple's guidelines, yet its submission is still being rejected.

Context

Apple previously informed Epic Games that it would not reconsider reinstating the developer account until ongoing litigation concludes. Recently, Apple blocked a new Fortnite build submitted by Epic Sweden, leading to the game’s unavailability on iOS devices worldwide.

Legal Stance

• Judge Rogers: Initially inclined not to require Apple to allow Fortnite on the App Store and denied Epic’s request for a preliminary injunction.
• Recent Developments: Judge Rogers recently ordered Apple to comply with the court's 2021 injunction, which may bolster Epic’s case.

Next Steps

Epic is using various tactics, including live-tweeting the stalemate, to pressure Apple. However, the success of Epic’s legal strategy will ultimately depend on whether Judge Rogers finds Apple in contempt for not complying with court orders.