Fortnite is still not available on iPhones in the United States, and Epic Games isn’t staying quiet about it. While Fortnite is returning to iOS in Europe thanks to the Digital Markets Act, U.S. iPhone users remain locked out — and Epic is calling out Apple's inconsistent app policies.
❗ What’s Happening with Fortnite and Apple?
In 2020, Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store due to Epic’s custom in-app payment system, launching a now-infamous legal battle.
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In the EU, Apple is required to allow third-party app stores
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In the U.S., Apple still controls who can publish apps — and Fortnite remains blocked
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney recently posted on X:
“Why isn’t Apple letting Fortnite back on iOS in the U.S.? The game is returning to Europe, so what’s the holdup here?”
🧩 Legal Differences: EU vs U.S.
| Region | Status | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 🇪🇺 EU | ✅ Returning mid-2025 | Under the Digital Markets Act, Epic can launch its own app store and payment system |
| 🇺🇸 U.S. | ❌ Still Blocked | Apple retains broad control over the App Store despite partial court rulings in Epic’s favor |
Epic believes Apple is leveraging its power in the U.S. to delay or deny Fortnite’s return.
🌍 Fortnite iOS Return Confirmed for Europe
In Europe, Fortnite is set to return to iPhones in mid-2025, distributed through the Epic Games Store app — not the App Store.
This model bypasses Apple’s 30% cut and uses Epic’s own payment system, a key point in their years-long fight.
📉 Impact on U.S. iPhone Users
If you’re in the U.S.:
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❌ You can’t download Fortnite natively from the App Store
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☁️ Cloud streaming (like GeForce NOW) is your only workaround
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✅ Fortnite is fully available on Android, PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch
It’s a frustrating gap for millions of mobile players who once enjoyed Fortnite’s full iOS experience.
🔁 Epic’s Bigger Goal
Epic isn’t just fighting for Fortnite — it’s campaigning for wider App Store reform. The company accuses Apple of:
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🔒 Anticompetitive control over its platform
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📵 Blocking competitors from reaching users directly
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🌐 Creating region-based double standards
The longer Fortnite stays off iOS in the U.S., the louder Epic’s calls for change are likely to get.
✅ TL;DR – Fortnite iPhone Apple Dispute
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Status: Fortnite still banned from U.S. iOS App Store
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Reason: Apple retains control after U.S. court rulings
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EU Contrast: Fortnite returns mid-2025 via Epic’s own store
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Player Impact: U.S. users must use cloud gaming or switch platforms
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Epic’s Stance: Apple’s app policies are inconsistent and unfair
