Epic Games has announced that Apple is blocking the Fortnite app from the Apple App Stores in both the United States and the European Union. This development follows closely on the heels of Epic’s recent legal victory against Apple, which compelled the tech giant to allow external payment systems in the U.S. App Store without imposing commission fees.
After this crucial court ruling, Epic Games moved swiftly to reinstate Fortnite on the U.S. App Store, submitting an updated version of their popular battle royale game on May 9, 2025. Yet, after a week passed without response from Apple, Epic was compelled to withdraw the submission, stating through CEO Tim Sweeney that their schedule required regular weekly updates across all platforms. This synchronization is crucial for the game’s consistent player experience, prompting Epic to resubmit another updated version of Fortnite on May 14.
By Friday morning, Epic Games publicly claimed through its official Fortnite account that Apple had not only refused the latest U.S. submission but had also simultaneously blocked Fortnite from returning to the E.U. App Store. Epic Games notes that Fortnite players on iOS will remain offline around the world until Apple reverses its decision.
The dispute marks yet another chapter in the long-standing struggle between the two technology giants, underscoring ongoing tensions regarding app marketplace policies, developer freedoms, and revenue sharing.
