After years of legal turmoil, Fortnite is finally making its comeback on iPhones and iPads. Epic Games has battled with Apple regarding developer fees, causing the game to alternate in and out of the App Store. However, recent court rulings have paved the way for its return, signaling a significant moment for fans and gamers alike.
Last Wednesday, the US District Court for the Northern District of California issued a ruling that condemned Apple’s anticompetitive behavior related to web transactions. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney shared his excitement on social media, emphasizing the court’s stance on Apple’s “willful violation” of prior injunctions aimed at curbing their monopolistic practices. The court made it clear: Apple’s attempts to stifle competition will not be tolerated.
Mark Your Calendars: Fortnite’s Re-Entry Date
So, when can players dive back into the action? According to Tim Sweeney, Fortnite is set to return to the US iOS App Store by May 11. He proclaimed on social media, “We will return Fortnite to the US iOS App Store next week.” Moreover, he hinted at a peace proposal, suggesting that if Apple adopts a more developer-friendly framework globally, Epic will not only return Fortnite to the App Store worldwide but also halt ongoing and future litigation on this front.
What’s New for iPhone Users?
To celebrate its iOS comeback, Fortnite is rumored to be reintroducing the Tart Tycoon skin a fan-favorite originally launched in 2020 and designed as a playful jab at Apple. Gamers can also expect the return of the Tart Tycoon Cup event, adding to the excitement of Fortnite’s resurgence on iOS. The game has been absent from Apple devices since 2020, making this relaunch all the more thrilling.
Behind the Legal Battles: A Brief History
Why has Fortnite been absent from iPhones in the first place? The legal saga began in 2021, when Epic Games filed a lawsuit against Apple. While a federal judge ruled largely in Apple’s favor, the company was not without consequences. The ruling mandated that Apple eliminate its anti-steering policies, allowing apps to direct users towards alternative payment methods outside of the App Store.
In subsequent appeals and court proceedings, Apple did manage to win some battles, but the integrity of their practices was called into question. In 2025, Epic Games returned to court, arguing that Apple failed to comply with previous rulings. The judge backed Epic, laying down strict compliance rules for Apple, which included prohibitions against charging developers for non-App Store payment options.
What Lies Ahead
As Fortnite’s return approaches, gamers are buzzing with anticipation. The re-launch not only reflects a win for Epic Games but also represents a larger movement towards fairer practices across the app marketplace. For those who have missed the thrill of building and battle royale, Fortnite on iOS is just around the corner.
So, get ready to reload and join the fray Fortnite is back, and it’s bringing a fresh wave of excitement along with it!
