Apple Approves Epic Games’ Marketplace App in Europe

Apple has approved Epic Games’ marketplace app, Epic Sweden AB Marketplace, for European iPhones and iPads. This development comes amid a continuing dispute between the two tech giants, with Epic Games accusing Apple of obstructing its efforts to establish a games store on Apple devices.

Specifics of the Dispute about Epic Games:

The recent conflict revolves around Epic Games’ attempts to launch the Epic Games Store on iOS devices. Apple previously approved Epic’s Fortnite app but has encountered issues with the design of certain buttons and labels in the Epic Games Store submission.

Epic Games argues that Apple’s rejection of its marketplace app is arbitrary and obstructive. They contend that the naming conventions and button designs they used are standard across various app stores on multiple platforms, including popular practices for iOS apps.

Legal and Regulatory Context by Apple:

Developers and antitrust regulators have criticized Apple’s stringent control over the iOS app ecosystem. Under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the European Commission has started an investigation into Apple’s practices regarding app validations and the facilitation of alternative app stores. Epic Games has raised concerns with the European Commission regarding Apple’s actions.

Since 2020, Epic Games and Apple have been embroiled in a legal battle over Apple’s App Store policies, particularly its commission structure for in-app purchases on iOS devices. Apple has faced allegations of violating U.S. antitrust rules by charging up to 30% commissions.

Recent Developments:

Earlier this year, Apple proposed policy changes to comply with certain aspects of the DMA, allowing alternative app stores on iPhones and offering an opt-out from Apple’s in-app payments system. However, Apple introduced a “core technology fee,” which developers have criticized as exploitative.