Apple Blocks Fortnite Access in US and EU, Claims Epic Games

In the latest twist in the long-running dispute between Apple and Epic Games, the popular video game Fortnite has once again been blocked on Apple devices in both the United States and the European Union. Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, claims that Apple has restricted access to the game on iPhones, including through Epic’s own game store in Europe.

Fortnite No Longer Available on iPhones Worldwide

According to Epic Games, Apple has blocked users from accessing Fortnite via its iOS operating system and the App Store, both in the US and EU. As a result, players globally cannot download or update the game on iPhones until the ban is lifted.

“Access to Fortnite on iPhones through Apple’s iOS and its App Store is currently unavailable worldwide,” Epic stated in an official communication. The company did not elaborate on the specific reasons behind Apple’s latest decision, and Apple has yet to release a public response.

Fortnite’s Meteoric Rise and Epic Games’ Global Standing

Fortnite was launched in 2017 and quickly became a global gaming phenomenon thanks to its “battle royale” format, where players compete in a last-player-standing survival match. Developed by Epic Games, a U.S.-based company with backing from China’s Tencent, Fortnite amassed millions of users worldwide, becoming one of the most successful and culturally influential games in history.

With Tencent’s support and an expansive ecosystem, Epic Games is now considered the world’s largest video game studio, hosting major titles and providing a powerful game engine used by developers across the globe.

Apple vs Epic Games: A Legal Dispute Since 2020

This latest Fortnite ban stems from a legal battle that began in 2020, when Epic Games challenged Apple’s App Store payment policies. Epic accused Apple of violating U.S. antitrust laws by charging up to 30% commission on in-app purchases made through the App Store.

In response to this lawsuit, Apple removed Fortnite from its store in 2020. The conflict triggered a wide-ranging debate over the power held by Big Tech firms over app distribution, developer revenue, and consumer choice.

EU Pressure Reinstated Fortnite — Temporarily

Under pressure from European regulators enforcing the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple allowed Fortnite back onto the App Store in 2023. The DMA seeks to ensure fair competition and prevent gatekeeping by dominant tech platforms within the EU.

Additionally, Apple approved Epic’s own games marketplace for distribution on iPhones and iPads in Europe, marking a major win for the gaming studio and signaling compliance with new EU rules designed to encourage app store alternatives.

Epic Games Recently Won a Legal Round

Earlier in May 2025, Epic Games scored a legal victory against Apple, although specific details of the ruling were not mentioned in the recent statement. This suggests that tensions between the two companies remain high despite temporary regulatory compliance.

Epic’s broader objective remains to open up Apple’s tightly controlled ecosystem, allowing game developers and players more freedom over how apps are distributed and monetized.

What Happens Next?

With Fortnite once again unavailable on Apple’s platforms, the future of the game on iPhones and iPads remains uncertain. Whether this latest move is a temporary response to regulatory changes, a technical issue, or a new round in the ongoing legal fight, remains to be seen.

As of now, Epic Games is urging Apple to reverse the block, but users should expect limited functionality until a resolution is reached. The situation also highlights the broader regulatory scrutiny facing tech giants like Apple, especially in the EU.