Epic Games Declines Return to UK iPhones Due to Insufficient Regulations

Epic Games has announced that it will not be reinstating its popular game, Fortnite, on the UK App Store, citing inadequate regulatory measures concerning market competition. This decision aligns with the company's concerns regarding the practices of both Apple and Google in the British digital landscape.

In a detailed blog post published by Epic Games, the company expressed its dissatisfaction with the regulatory actions taken by the UK government against the dominant market positions of Apple and Google. The UK, through its Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), has been working to regulate major app platforms similarly to the European Union's efforts. Recently, the CMA concluded a prolonged investigation, categorizing both Apple and Google as firms with 'strategic market status,' akin to the EU's classification of gatekeepers. However, the CMA has not yet mandated that Apple allow alternative app marketplaces, which would enable competitors to offer app stores that operate independently of Apple's platform.

Epic Games criticized the CMA for failing to prioritize the opening of mobile ecosystems, labeling it a missed opportunity to enhance competition within a currently monopolized market. The company emphasized that a free market requires multiple app stores to foster competition, and without such developments, the prospect of launching the Epic Games Store on iOS in the UK is doubtful.

Moreover, the future of Fortnite's return to the UK remains uncertain. Epic Games pointed out that other regions, including the EU, Brazil, and Japan, are moving more favorably towards the reinstatement of both Fortnite and the Epic Games Store on iPhones, with expectations of launches occurring later this year. The company has urged the CMA to reconsider its current regulatory approach, which it described as weak.

Currently, the CMA plans to reach a final decision on the matter in 2026. Investigations are also being conducted into whether Apple should be compelled to permit users to sideload apps--install applications outside of the official App Store. Another unresolved issue is the regulation of 'steering,' which restricts app developers from directing users to alternative payment methods that do not involve Apple's commission.

Epic Games has pointed out that Apple continues to pursue additional revenue opportunities in Europe through new fees that the company has termed 'junk fees,' which allegedly circumvent the Digital Markets Act. These ongoing challenges highlight the complexities and evolving nature of app store regulations and market competition in the technology sector.