In a landmark move for mobile gaming, the Epic Games Store has made its return to the iPad, but only for users in the European Union. The development comes after Apple’s compliance with the European Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires tech giants to allow third-party app stores and sideloading options in their ecosystems.
Epic Games Returns to iPad
Epic Games, known for its global hit Fortnite, was removed from Apple’s App Store in 2020 after the gaming company violated Apple’s strict payment guidelines. At the time, Epic bypassed Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases, leading to a high-profile legal battle between the two tech giants.
However, thanks to regulatory pressures from the EU, iPadOS 18 now enables European users to access apps via third-party stores, including the Epic Games Store. This update allows gamers in the EU to download Fortnite and other Epic-published games directly on their iPads without going through Apple’s App Store.
Impact of iPadOS 18
The release of iPadOS 18 plays a crucial role in this shift. With new features, including support for third-party app stores, Apple is taking steps to align itself with the EU’s DMA, which promotes fair competition in digital markets. This update grants European iPad users more flexibility in accessing apps and content, giving Epic Games and other developers an opportunity to reach their audiences without relying on Apple’s native store.
A Step Forward for Developers and Gamers
For developers, this change marks a significant milestone, as it lowers barriers to entry in the iOS ecosystem. For gamers, it means greater access to their favorite titles, such as Fortnite, without needing to navigate Apple’s commission-heavy policies. As of now, this feature remains exclusive to the European market, but it signals a broader potential shift in Apple’s global app distribution practices.
The Epic Games Store’s return to iPad is a major victory for both developers and consumers, heralding a new era of digital freedom within Apple’s typically closed ecosystem.
