Fortnite has returned to the US iPhone app store after a prolonged absence sparked by a legal battle over payment fees with Apple. The game, which features virtual gunfighting on a digital island, was previously banned from the iPhone and iPad in 2020 due to its refusal to pay the 15% to 30% commissions Apple collects on in-app transactions.
The dispute between Epic Games, Fortnite’s parent company, and Apple has been ongoing since 2021. A federal judge ordered Apple to loosen control over in-app payments, but the company responded by introducing a new system that allows links to alternative payment options while maintaining a 27% commission.
Epic continued to push for Fortnite’s return, filing a motion asking a federal judge to order its reinstallation on Apple devices. The dispute was resolved when Apple filed a statement stating that the issue had been resolved. However, Epic remains concerned and has scheduled a hearing with the court to determine if the game will remain available.
Fortnite is now back on the App Store in the US, but it’s unclear whether the game will be available on other devices or in other countries. The company stated that the game will show up in search soon, indicating a potential swift return of the popular game.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/may/21/fortnite-iphone-app-store-apple