Fortnite is set to make a return to iOS devices in Europe later this year, as announced by Epic Games. The highly popular game, which was removed from Apple's App Store over three years ago due to a dispute over payment systems, will once again be accessible on iPhones.

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Apple's decision to remove Fortnite from its App Store stemmed from the game's use of a third-party payment system, which circumvented Apple's commission fees. Despite being unavailable on iPhones, Fortnite remained accessible on Windows and macOS platforms. Epic Games responded by filing a lawsuit against Apple, alleging anti-competitive practices in the app market. However, the case faced setbacks, including a denial for a hearing by the Supreme Court.

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In response to regulatory pressure, Apple recently announced plans to open iOS to third-party app stores, a move intended to comply with the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA aims to foster fair competition in the tech industry and is scheduled to take effect in March. This legislation effectively ends Apple's monopoly as the exclusive distributor of iPhone apps.

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Epic Games' approach to bringing Fortnite back to iOS involves the launch of the Epic Games Store, rather than reinstating the game on the App Store. The Epic Games Store, along with Fortnite, will be available only in countries adopting the DMA regulations. Despite this development, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, indicating a preference to return to the original App Store environment.

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Sweeney criticized Apple's compliance strategy with the DMA, referring to it as "Malicious Compliance." He highlighted concerns about the potential imposition of new fees and taxes on developers, which could be deemed illegal under the DMA regulations.

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While a specific timeline for Fortnite's reintroduction to iOS devices has not been disclosed, it is anticipated to occur sometime within the year, offering European players the opportunity to once again enjoy the game on their iPhones.