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Apple and Epic Games are once again at the center of a legal dispute that could have direct consequences for users. Fortnite is currently no longer playable on iOS devices worldwide – even though the game would actually be legal again in the EU. The reason: Apple is blocking access to the game in the US App Store. Now Epic Games is taking the case to court, seeking a swift resolution.
The dispute between Apple and Epic Games has been dragging on for years. In 2020, Epic's developer account was terminated after Fortnite violated Apple's in-app purchase rules. Since then, a legal battle has raged, constantly taking new twists and turns. Now a decisive moment may be approaching, as Epic is putting massive pressure on Apple – and a US court is demanding answers.
Epic demands return of Fortnite – Apple blocks
Last week, Epic Games attempted to reinstate Fortnite in the US App Store. Apple rejected the request, ignoring the court order Epic is relying on. Fortnite was previously tied to an EU update, meaning that since it was blocked in the US store, the game has been unplayable on iOS worldwide since Friday. Epic then informed the court that Apple was violating an existing preliminary injunction. The request demands that Apple be forced to allow Fortnite. The judge in charge has since issued a statement on the matter. She is annoyed by the behavior of both parties – Apple's constant delays and Epic's constant criticism.
Court demands statement – personal appearance ordered
If Apple continues to block Fortnite, a hearing will take place on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in the United States District Court in Oakland, California. Apple must be represented by a responsible executive. App Store CEO Phil Schiller may have to appear in person. The court is demanding that Apple provide a clear explanation of the legal basis for its decision to continue blocking Fortnite despite the court order. Apple filed a stay application with the appeals court on May 7, but has not received a response to date. The court makes it clear that Apple could still have responded—without further briefing or hearing. If there is no agreement between the two companies or no joint notification that the matter is resolved, Apple will have to appear in court.
Apple relies on termination from 2020
Apple argues that the preliminary injunction does not change its right to terminate its Epic Games developer account in 2020. Apple is only ready to discuss a return of Fortnite to the App Store once all legal disputes in the US are resolved. An appeal is currently underway against the ruling, which requires Apple to allow alternative purchasing options outside of the App Store. Apple has not received a response since filing its motion with the appeals court on May 7. Nevertheless, Apple is standing by its decision. This ensures that Fortnite is unavailable on iPhones and iPads worldwide.
Alternative sales opportunities remain unused
Epic could submit a separate EU version of Fortnite and distribute it through its own app marketplace in the EU. Technically, this would be possible. But Epic has decided against it. On social media, the company blames Apple for the situation. Fortnite will therefore remain offline on iOS worldwide.
Other developers are now allowed to
In compliance with the court's orders, Apple has allowed apps like Spotify and Patreon to submit updates containing links to purchase options outside of the App Store. This at least partially implements the ruling's requirements. Nevertheless, the Fortnite ban remains in place. Epic views this as a deliberate discrimination and uses every opportunity to draw public attention to the conflict.
Court or settlement – Apple is under pressure
The conflict between Apple and Epic Games has reached a new peak. If no out-of-court settlement is reached, Apple will have to appear in court on May 27. The company will then have to explain why Fortnite continues to be blocked – despite court orders. Fortnite will remain unavailable to users on the iPhone until further notice. Whether this changes in the short term depends on Apple's decision: either to relent and allow Fortnite – or to continue the dispute in court. (Image: Shutterstock / OpturaDesign)
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