Fortnite returns to iOS after court rules against Apple and Google

In a landmark decision on August 12, 2025, the Federal Court of Australia ruled that Apple and Google engaged in anti-competitive practices, paving the way for Epic Games to bring Fortnite and the Epic Games Store back to iOS in Australia. The ruling, led by Judge Jonathan Beach, found that the tech giants’ control over app distribution and in-app payments stifled competition, harming developers and consumers. Epic Games announced the news on its X profile, celebrating the decision as a victory for fair competition. The company is now preparing to reintroduce its popular battle royale game and app store to Australian iOS users, though it is still reviewing the court’s 2,000-page ruling for full details. This development marks another milestone in Epic’s global fight against restrictive app store policies, following similar outcomes in the United States, European Union, and Japan.

The legal battle traces back to 2020 when Epic Games challenged Apple and Google’s 30% commission fees by introducing a direct payment system in Fortnite, bypassing the App Store and Google Play. Both companies swiftly removed the game from their platforms, prompting Epic to file lawsuits worldwide. The Australian ruling aligns with global trends pushing for greater flexibility in app distribution and payment systems, potentially lowering costs for users and developers.

• Key ruling: Apple and Google’s app store practices were deemed anti-competitive.
• Epic’s plans: Fortnite and the Epic Games Store will soon return to iOS in Australia.
• Global impact: The decision echoes similar regulatory changes in other regions.

Court’s findings on anti-competitive practices

The Federal Court’s ruling highlighted how Apple and Google’s app store policies restricted competition. Judge Beach determined that Apple’s prohibition on sideloading apps and its mandatory in-app payment system inflated prices and limited developer options. Similarly, Google’s Play Store policies were found to impose unfair restrictions, despite some competition in the Android ecosystem. The decision opens the door for third-party app stores and alternative payment methods, which could reshape the mobile app market in Australia.

Epic Games issued a statement emphasizing that the ruling benefits both developers and consumers by fostering a more open market. The company is analyzing the extensive court findings to ensure compliance and plan its next steps. Meanwhile, Apple and Google have indicated they may appeal, arguing that their policies prioritize user security and market competition.

• Apple’s stance: Claims its App Store faces competition and ensures user safety.
• Google’s response: Acknowledges Android competition but disputes restrictive label.
• Epic’s strategy: Plans to launch its app store on iOS, pending technical adjustments.
• Consumer benefits: Potential for lower prices and more payment options.

Background of the Epic-Apple-Google dispute

The conflict began in August 2020 when Epic Games introduced a direct payment option in Fortnite, bypassing Apple and Google’s 30% commission fees. This led to Fortnite’s removal from both the App Store and Google Play, sparking a series of lawsuits. In Australia, Epic filed cases against Apple in November 2020 and Google in March 2021, accusing them of monopolistic practices. The 2025 ruling marks a significant win, as the court found that both companies’ restrictions on app distribution and payments harmed market competition.

The Australian decision follows a 2021 U.S. ruling that forced Apple to allow external payment links, though the company imposed a 27% commission on such transactions, later struck down in 2025. The court’s findings in Australia also point to inflated prices caused by restrictive policies, potentially leading to compensation for consumers and developers.

Implications for the app market

The ruling could transform Australia’s mobile app landscape. By allowing third-party app stores and alternative payment systems, developers can bypass high commissions, potentially reducing costs for users. The decision also supports two class-action lawsuits involving approximately 15 million consumers and 150,000 developers, who may seek damages for overcharges between 2017 and 2022. Legal experts estimate potential payouts could reach hundreds of millions of dollars.

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The introduction of the Epic Games Store on iOS could encourage other companies to develop competing app stores, fostering innovation and diversity in the market. This shift may also pressure Apple and Google to lower their commission rates globally to remain competitive.

• Class actions: Consumers and developers seek compensation for inflated prices.
• Lower costs: Alternative payment systems could reduce in-app purchase prices.
• New app stores: Epic’s store may inspire competitors to enter the iOS market.
• Innovation boost: Increased competition could drive app development and variety.

Future of iOS in Australia

The return of Fortnite to iOS in Australia signals broader changes in the app ecosystem. The ruling aligns with global regulations, such as the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which has already forced Apple to allow third-party app stores. In Japan, similar policy changes are expected by late 2025. Epic Games has not confirmed a launch date for its iOS store in Australia but is expected to roll it out within months, pending compliance with Apple’s security requirements.

Apple and Google’s potential appeals could delay full implementation, as both companies argue their policies protect users. However, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) supports the ruling, advocating for stricter regulations to curb anti-competitive practices in digital markets.

Global ripple effects

The Australian decision adds momentum to Epic’s global campaign against app store monopolies. In the U.S., a 2025 ruling eliminated Apple’s 27% commission on external payments, while the EU’s Digital Markets Act enabled Fortnite’s return via the Epic Games Store. Japan is set to introduce similar reforms by the end of 2025. These developments reflect growing regulatory scrutiny of tech giants’ control over app distribution and payments.

The ACCC emphasized that practices like exclusive agreements and interoperability restrictions harm innovation and inflate prices. The Australian ruling could inspire further regulatory action worldwide, giving developers and consumers more choices and potentially lowering costs across digital platforms.

• U.S. precedent: Apple forced to remove external payment commissions.
• EU impact: Digital Markets Act opened iOS to third-party stores.
• Japan’s reforms: App store policy changes expected by late 2025.
• ACCC’s role: Pushes for tougher rules against anti-competitive practices.
• Global benefits: Consumers may see more options and lower prices worldwide.