Apple and Google removed the popular game Fortnite from their app store after Epic Games launched a direct payment plan that bypasses Google Play store and Apple App store. For the unaware, both Apple and Google take a 30 per cent cut from in-app revenue purchases in games.
On Thursday Aug-13, the developer of the game updated for both versions of Fornite that let users pay Epic directly for in-app purchases. Fortnite is a free game but players need to pay for in-game weapons and skins purchase.
Apple said in a statement on the matter, “Epic enabled a feature in its app which was not reviewed or approved by Apple, and they did so with the express intent of violating the App Store guidelines regarding in-app payments that apply to every developer who sells digital goods or services.”
“While Fortnite remains available on Android, we can no longer make it available on Play because it violates our policies. However, we welcome the opportunity to continue our discussions with Epic and bring Fortnite back to Google Play,” Google added.
Despite the removal, Fortnite will still be available on Android just not through the Play store. Android users will be able to download Fortnite from other app stores like Epic Games app or Samsung Galaxy Store on Samsung devices. For iPhone users, there’s no such option available.
Why Was Fortnite Banned From The App Store And Google Play?
On Thursday, August 13, Epic Games introduced its own direct, in-app payment system for Fortnite across all platforms. Called the Fortnite Mega Drop, the new system implemented permanent discounts of up to 20% on V-bucks, Fortnite's in-game currency. On PC and console, this isn't a problem, but on mobile devices, things get a little more controversial.
Apple and Google have banned Fortnite from their app stores?
Both Apple's App Store and the Google Play Store collect a 30% fee from in-game purchases on their platforms. The new payment system gives players a choice between processing their in-app purchase through Apple (on iOS) or Google (on Android), thus paying a few dollars more and allowing Apple or Google to take their usual cut, or bypassing this step altogether and paying a lower price directly to Epic. By introducing a direct payment system that sidesteps Apple's fee, Epic Games has violated the App Store guidelines.
Can You Still Play Fortnite on iOS/iPhone/iPad?
The short answer is: Yes. If you already have Fortnite installed on your iOS device, like your iPhone or iPad, you can continue to play it. However, you will be limited to the latest version you have on your phone. The most recent version is update 13.40 from Chapter 2, Season 3. Once Chapter 2, Season 4 goes live, you will not be able to access any new content, including the new Battle Pass. You will be able to continue playing the older version, however.
If you have downloaded Fortnite in the past but have uninstalled it, you may still be able to recover it. Navigate to your profile on the App Store -> Purchased -> My Purchases and search for Fortnite. An editor at GameSpot has been able to verify this method as a way of reinstalling Fortnite on an iPhone and iPad. If you check the App Store, however, the game will not be available, even if you have already installed it previously.
0 Comments