Apple has blocked Fortnite maker Epic Games from launching its game and app store in the European Union, deepening a years-long feud between the two tech giants. In a statement released on Wednesday, Epic issued a letter claiming to be from Apple, terminating its permission to develop apps for iPhone and iPad.
“Please note that Apple has terminated Epic Games Scotland AB’s developer program membership, effective immediately,” Apple seemed to say in a March 2 lawyer’s letter published by Epic.
Apple described Epic’s plans to release software to EU customers as “part of a global effort to undermine or circumvent Apple’s rules.” Apple did not comment on whether the letter shared by Epic Games was authentic.
Apple said its decision to terminate Epic’s developer accounts applies globally.
“Epic has materially breached its contractual obligations to Apple, resulting in a court finding that Apple has the right to terminate ‘any or all of Epic Games’ wholly owned subsidiaries, affiliates and/or other entities under the control of Epic Games at any time. In Apple’s sole discretion ,” the company said in a statement. “In light of Epic’s past and current conduct, Apple has chosen to exercise this right.”
Epic claimed that Apple’s move violated EU antitrust laws and said it planned to “fight hard to win back the iOS version.”
The move comes as Apple releases a new version of iPhone iOS software designed to comply with the rules of the Digital Markets Act. The law aims to force big tech companies to allow more competition, requiring Apple to allow EU customers to install alternative app stores and individually download apps to their devices.
The epic battle for apples
Apple’s decision to terminate Epic’s developer account marks another twist in the two tech giants’ four-year high-profile court battle over how much power Apple exerts over its iPhones, iPads and Mac computers.
Epic believes Apple should allow customers to download apps and pay developers whatever they want. Since the launch of the App Store 15 years ago, Apple has required apps for iPhones to be downloaded there. Apple also stipulates that most developers must charge customers through its payment processing service, taking up to 30% of each charge. Epic is filing a similar lawsuit over Google’s handling of the Play Store.
Apple largely won the argument in court, with a judge declaring that the iPhone maker did not violate antitrust laws by forcing app developers to use its in-app payment system.
Epic vowed to keep fighting.
On Wednesday, Epic said Apple’s move to terminate its developer accounts undermines “our ability to be a viable competitor, and they are showing other developers what happens when you try to compete with Apple or criticize their unfair practices.” “