After iOS, the EU has targeted Apple once again with respect to iPadOS, calling it a digital gatekeeper. This means that the changes imposed by the EU under the Digital Markets Act for the iPhone will be coming to the iPad. In light of recent events, Epic has announced that it will be bringing back Fortnite to the iPad as well.
Fortnite will return to the iPhone and iPad later this year for users residing in the EU
Apple had to comply with the changes imposed by the EU with its iOS 17.4 update. The company is still working on some improvements, which will be available with iOS 17.5 release. The purpose of the new features is to promote fair market practices, as Apple has a sustained position in this regard. Ultimately, Apple was forced to allow app sideloading on the iPhone with additional changes oriented towards the App Store and Safari. Now, Epic has announced its plan to bring Fortnite back to the iPhone and iPad under the EU's new ruling.
In a press release, the EU regulatory authorities stated that Apple's iPadOS platform is identified as a digital gatekeeper, similar to iOS. The company was given six months to comply with the obligations and failing to do so could result in a fine. This made us speculate that iPadOS will follow in the footsteps of iOS when it comes to opening the platform for developers to offer their apps outside of the App Store.
Today, the European Commission said that iPads will also need to comply with the Digital Markets Act 🙌
We’re moving full steam ahead to bring Fortnite and the @EpicGames Store to iPhones in the EU soon and iPads this year! 🎉 https://t.co/MHh6EGVinC
— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) April 29, 2024
One of the biggest changes implemented on the iPhone with iOS 17.4 is the liberty given to developers to offer alternative app stores with their own payment methods. With iPadOS following the same obligations as iOS, Although Epic has not shared specific release dates, it has announced the return of Fortnite and Epic Games Store for the iPad.
Epic Games will introduce Fortnite on the iPhone soon, but the iPad will have to wait until later this year. Note that the changes will only be available in countries that fall under the EU. Apple would have to accept the changes in accordance with the Digital Markets Act. We are yet to see how Apple responds to the changes and whether it would make it any easier for developers to bring their apps to iOS and iPadOS.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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