Epic Games faces a major setback in bringing Fortnite back to iOS devices in the UK, as the country’s competition regulator shows no urgency in opening mobile app markets to competition.
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Epic’s Fortnite iOS Return Faces UK Regulatory Hurdle
After successfully reinstating Fortnite on iOS through the US App Store and launching the Epic Games Store in the European Union, Epic’s UK expansion has stalled completely. The CMA (Competition and Markets Authority) has “deprioritized store competition entirely, to be considered sometime in 2026.”
Epic expressed frustration in a recent blog post, criticizing the CMA’s lack of action despite recognizing App Store and Google Play monopolies four years ago.
Regional Success vs UK Standstill
| Region | Status | Method | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Available | App Store reinstated | Active now |
| European Union | Available | Epic Games Store | Active now |
| United Kingdom | Blocked | No regulatory path | Delayed until 2026 |
| Brazil/Japan | Coming | Epic Games Store | Later 2024 |
The contrast is stark. While EU’s Digital Markets Act enabled alternative app stores like AltStore, Aptoide, and Epic Games Store, the UK offers no similar framework.
Apple’s “Malicious Compliance” Concerns
Epic warns of potential issues even when regulations arrive. “Unless Apple and Google are completely blocked from imposing fees and discriminating against apps using out-of-app payment, we can expect years of malicious compliance ahead.”
The company references Apple’s European response as problematic, introducing “restrictions, obstructions and junk fees” that undermine the Digital Markets Act’s intent.
What This Means for UK Gamers
UK iOS users remain locked out of Fortnite through alternative stores, unlike their US and EU counterparts. The CMA’s delayed timeline suggests no immediate relief for the estimated millions of UK mobile gamers wanting access.
Epic continues pressuring regulators while expanding globally. Their recent US court victory against Apple provides a template for blocking fees on external payment services.
For more gaming industry updates, check our mobile gaming news and Epic Games coverage.
FAQs
When will Fortnite return to iOS in the UK?
The CMA has postponed mobile app store competition decisions until 2026 at earliest.
Can UK players access Fortnite on iOS through other methods?
Currently no legitimate alternative exists for iOS users in the UK market.
