In a major development for mobile gamers, Epic Games has confirmed that Fortnite will be making its long-awaited return to iOS devices in Australia. This announcement follows a significant antitrust ruling by the Australian Federal Court, which found that Apple and Google abused their control over app distribution and in app payments, effectively limiting competition within the mobile ecosystem The decision is seen as a victory for developers and consumers, as the court’s findings spanning over 2,000 pages underscore the anti-competitive nature of the restrictions imposed by the major tech platforms.
The ruling echoes similar outcomes in the United States and the European Union, where regulatory bodies have begun to allow third-party app stores and alternative payment systems on mobile devices. Epic Games, famously ousted from Apple’s App Store in 2020 after attempting to bypass platform fees by introducing direct payments, had endured years of legal wrangling. The Australian case had mirrored international proceedings, with the court ultimately agreeing that Apple and Google had used their market dominance to substantially lessen competition though claims of unconscionable conduct were dismissed. The practical result: Apple is now expected to open up its iOS platform in Australia for the Epic Games Store and Fortnite, marking a new era for app distribution in the country.
Epic officials have taken to social media and official channels to celebrate this turning point, promising that not only Fortnite but also the Epic Games Store will launch on Australian iPhones soon. While a specific launch date has not yet been announced, representatives assure local gamers that this major change is imminent, and updates will follow as the details of the judgment are further reviewed. Developers and industry observers are hailing the decision as a step forward for digital fairness, with lawyers suggesting possible large payouts to developers and consumers who faced inflated prices due to App Store commission structures. As Australia joins other regions in reshaping the mobile software market, players across the country can look forward to enjoying their favorite games free from previous restrictions.
Source: The Verge: Epic to relaunch Fortnite on iOS in Australia after court rules Apple and Google app stores are anticompetitive.
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