Apple Removes Fortnite From App Store, Says Epic is Violating its Guidelines [Update]

In a decision that could mark a significant escalation in the feud between Epic and Apple, the Cupertino tech giant has pulled Epic Games’ battle royale Fortnite from the App Store following the developer’s implementation of its own payment system that bypasses Apple’s 30% fee.

Fortnite ios issues

In a statement to The Verge, Apple has said that while the company plans to work with Epic to “resolve these violations,” it has no intention to create a “special arrangement” for the Fortnite developer.

“Today, Epic Games took the unfortunate step of violating the App Store guidelines that are applied equally to every developer and designed to keep the store safe for our users. As a result, their Fortnite app has been removed from the store,” nerd Apple.

Apple continues that Epic enabled a feature in its app which was not reviewed or approved, and that they did so “with the express intent of violating the App Store guidelines regarding in-app payments.”

“Epic has had apps on the App Store for a decade, and have benefited from the App Store ecosystem – including it’s tools, testing, and distribution that Apple provides to all developers. Epic agreed to the App Store terms and guidelines freely and we’re glad they’ve built such a successful business on the App Store. The fact that their business interests now lead them to push for a special arrangement does not change the fact that these guidelines create a level playing field for all developers and make the store safe for all users. We will make every effort to work with Epic to resolve these violations so they can return Fortnite to the App Store.”

The move comes at a time when Apple is navigating antitrust concerns over its operation of the App Store and the rules it imposes on certain developers.

Update: Epic has announced it is suing Apple.

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