The European Union passed a 2022 law to loosen Apple’s grip on the app economy. Epic Games, known for Fortnite, aimed to launch a competing app store for developers. Before the law took effect, Apple blocked Epic’s European subsidiary from using iPhone software tools, making it impossible for them to create the Epic Games Store.
Apple cited Epic’s past non-compliance with its rules and criticized Epic’s objections to Apple’s plans to adhere to Europe’s tech competition law. This move is part of the ongoing battle between Apple and Epic, which started when Epic violated App Store rules in 2020.
Apple’s refusal to grant Epic access to developer tools challenges Europe’s tech competition law. The Digital Markets Act, effective Thursday, requires Apple to offer app makers options for selling software to iPhone and iPad users. An Apple spokesman justified the termination of Epic’s games due to a breach of contractual obligations.
Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, expressed plans to file a complaint against Apple, emphasizing the importance of competition and better prices for consumers.
In 2018, Epic Games introduced a digital store with lower commission fees than Apple. Other developers have raised concerns about Apple’s compliance with the Digital Markets Act, leading to potential investigations by European regulators.
Apple’s clash with Epic over a competing app store in Europe could result in fines or policy changes. Apple’s actions against Epic began when Epic’s Swedish subsidiary intended to launch the Epic Games Store for iPhones and iPads in Europe.
Phil Schiller of Apple questioned Epic’s intentions, citing past rule violations. Mr. Sweeney assured Apple of Epic’s compliance. However, Apple terminated Epic Sweden AB’s developer account, leading to further tensions between the two companies.
