Why is Epic mad at Apple?
Epic, the maker of Fortnite, is mad at Apple because of the company’s exorbitant 30% commission for in-app purchases and its anti-competitive policies that force developers to use the App Store, which Epic believes stifles innovation and limits consumer choice. The dispute between the two companies has been ongoing since 2020, with Epic filing an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, accusing the company of acting as an illegal monopolist by requiring consumers to get apps through its App Store and buy digital content inside an app using its own system.
The Dispute Between Epic and Apple
The Epic Games v. Apple case has been a highly publicized and contentious battle between the two companies, with Epic arguing that Apple’s App Store policies are unfair and stifle competition, while Apple maintains that its policies are necessary to ensure the security and safety of its users.
Background of the Dispute
The dispute between Epic and Apple began in 2020, when Epic introduced a direct payment option in its Fortnite game, allowing users to purchase V-Bucks without going through the App Store. Apple responded by removing Fortnite from the App Store, citing a violation of its App Store guidelines. Epic then filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, accusing the company of anti-competitive behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the main reason for the dispute between Epic and Apple?
The main reason for the dispute is Apple’s 30% commission for in-app purchases and its anti-competitive policies that force developers to use the App Store.
Q2: What is Epic’s argument against Apple?
Epic argues that Apple’s App Store policies are unfair and stifle competition, and that the company is acting as an illegal monopolist.
Q3: What is Apple’s response to Epic’s arguments?
Apple maintains that its App Store policies are necessary to ensure the security and safety of its users, and that Epic’s direct payment option violates its App Store guidelines.
Q4: What was the outcome of the Epic Games v. Apple case?
The court ruled in favor of Apple, but also found that the company’s restraints have a substantial anticompetitive effect that harms consumers.
Q5: Can I still play Fortnite on my iPhone?
No, Fortnite is no longer available on the App Store, but you can play it on other platforms such as PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Q6: Will Epic Games pay Apple the $6 million in royalties?
Yes, Epic Games has paid Apple $6 million in royalties as part of the court ruling.
Q7: Can I get a refund for my Fortnite purchases?
Yes, you can apply for a refund on the Fortnite website if you were charged for unwanted purchases.
Q8: Who owns Fortnite?
Epic Games owns Fortnite, with Tim Sweeney being the major shareholder and Tencent holding a stake of over 40%.
Q9: Why did Apple ban Fortnite from the App Store?
Apple banned Fortnite from the App Store because Epic introduced a direct payment option that allowed users to purchase V-Bucks without going through the App Store.
Q10: Is Fortnite available on Android?
Yes, Fortnite is still available on Android, but not through the Google Play Store.
Q11: Why did Epic remove the Kinetic Blade from Fortnite?
Epic removed the Kinetic Blade from Fortnite because it was being used to exploit the game and gain an unfair advantage.
Q12: Can I play Fortnite with my friends on different platforms?
Yes, Fortnite allows cross-platform play, so you can play with your friends on different platforms such as PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Q13: Is Fortnite still banned in China?
Yes, Fortnite is still banned in China due to the country’s crackdown on online video games.
Q14: How much is the owner of Fortnite worth?
Tim Sweeney, the owner of Fortnite, is worth $7.6 billion according to Forbes.
Q15: Can I still play Fortnite on my iPad?
Yes, you can still play Fortnite on your iPad through Nvidia’s GeForce Now cloud gaming service.