May 16, 2025 – 4:35 AM PDT
STOCKHOLM – Apple has blocked access to the “Fortnite” video game on its iPhones in the U.S. and through the game maker Epic Games’ own store within the European Union, according to a statement from Epic Games on Friday.
Epic indicated that Fortnite will be unavailable globally on Apple’s iPhone Operating System and through the App Store until Apple decides to lift the restrictions.
As for Apple, they did not respond promptly to requests for comments, and Epic Games did not provide details about the reasons behind the blockade.
Epic, based in the U.S. and supported by China’s Tencent, is known as the largest game studio worldwide. The company launched in 2017 and gained massive popularity with its last-player-standing “battle royale” style, attracting millions.
However, since 2020, Epic has been involved in legal disputes with Apple. This stems from accusations that Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases breaches U.S. antitrust laws.
Although Apple removed Fortnite from its store in 2020, it reinstated the game last year after pressure from the European Union authorities, pushing for compliance with the Digital Markets Act.
