Epic Games Launches Rival App Store, Challenging Apple’s Dominance

Epic Games, the developer behind the popular game Fortnite, has officially launched its own app store, offering a direct challenge to Apple’s App Store in the European Union.The Epic Games Store is also available on Android devices worldwide.

The new app store features a curated selection of games, including Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and Fall Guys. Epic Games is actively working to expand its catalog by partnering with additional developers.

In a significant move, Epic Games has also collaborated with AltStore PAL, an independent mobile app store, to make its platform freely available to users.

This partnership aims to provide users with a wider range of app options and support competition in the mobile app market.

The launch of the Epic Games Store marks a turning point in the mobile app ecosystem, as it represents the first serious challenge to Apple’s longstanding dominance.

The company’s decision to remove Fortnite from the App Store in 2020 sparked a legal battle that ultimately led to regulatory changes, forcing Apple to open up its platform to third-party app stores.

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney expressed his satisfaction with the progress made, emphasizing the importance of competition for developers and consumers. He stated, “The tide is turning, and the mobile ecosystem is finally opening up to competition. We are grateful to the European Commission for making it possible to launch the Epic Games Store and offer our games to iOS users in the European Union.”

While the installation process for the Epic Games Store on iOS and Android may currently be complex due to Apple and Google’s restrictions, Epic Games is committed to streamlining this process in the future.

The launch of the Epic Games Store marks a significant milestone in the ongoing battle for mobile app market dominance. It offers developers and consumers a new option, fostering competition and potentially leading to greater innovation and choice.