Epic Games Store on iOS Rejected by Apple

Written by Dante Uzel on 05 July 2024 16:16

Epic Games stated that Apple rejected the Epic Games Store once again. According to reports, Apple has raised concerns regarding the design and placement of the “Install” button and the “In-app purchases” label in the Epic Games Store (EGS), finding them to be too similar to those used in the App Store.

In response, Epic Games stated that it adheres to naming and design guidelines used across popular iOS applications. According to Epic, these elements are designed to ensure clarity for mobile users, aligning with regulatory best practices for in-app purchase disclosures observed by all major app stores today.

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Epic Games criticized Apple's rejection as arbitrary, obstructive, and potentially violating the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The company has communicated these issues to the European Commission and remains committed to launching the Epic Games Store on iOS in the EU within the coming months.

EU regulators recently accused Apple of violating the DMA, stating that its App Store rules restrict app developers from directing consumers to alternative channels for offers and content.

Epic Games sued Apple in August 2020 over App Store policies. They challenged Apple's restrictions on in-app purchases and the 30% fee Apple takes. Epic altered Fortnite to bypass Apple's payment system, which led to Apple removing the game from the App Store and Epic filing a lawsuit.

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The trial between Epic Games and Apple took place from May 3 to May 24, 2021. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled in September 2021, prohibited Apple from blocking developers from informing users about other payment options within apps. Both Epic and Apple appealed. Justice Kagan denied Epic's emergency request to halt the ruling in August 2023. In January 2024, the Supreme Court denied both appeals, upholding the requirement for Apple to allow alternate payment systems in apps, marking a partial victory for Epic.