Apple today has approved Fortnite for iOS and iPadOS to return to the U.S. App Store. This marks the first time since Fortnite has been on the App Store since 2020.
In August 2020, Epic introduced a direct payment system in Fortnite, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission, leading to the game’s removal by Apple and an Epic launching an antitrust lawsuit. A 2021 ruling required Apple to allow developers to direct users to external payment options. In April 2025, U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled Apple’s 27% commission on such links and warning screens violated the injunction, ordering Apple to permit friction-free external payment methods without Apple-imposed fees.
Apple initially resisted Fortnite’s return, planning to block it until the legal dispute was fully resolved. Yesterday, the judge pressed Apple and Epic to settle or face further court action, including a potential in-person appearance by Apple’s app review chief. This spurred Apple to approve Fortnite’s resubmission via Epic’s Sweden developer account. The U.S. version, now available, offers purchases through Epic directly, avoiding in-app transactions. Fortnite is also accessible via the Epic Games Store in the EU but not in other regions’ App Stores.
Apple is appealing the ruling that forced changes to its App Store policies. Fortnite’s return reconnects iOS players and challenges Apple’s control, but ongoing legal disputes may influence future app monetization and distribution.
