In the world of video games and mobile apps, few disputes have been as public and long-running as the battle between Epic Games and Apple. If you’ve heard about the conflict but aren’t quite sure what it’s really about, you’re not alone. Here’s a simple explanation of what’s going on, why Epic is upset with Apple, and why this matters to app users everywhere.
The Basics
Epic Games is the company behind Fortnite, one of the most popular online games in the world. Apple operates the App Store, the only official place where iPhone and iPad users can download apps.
The core issue isn’t about the Fortnite game itself—it’s not about the content, features, or gameplay. The fight is about how purchases are handled inside the app, and who gets to control that process.
In 2020, Epic introduced a direct payment option in Fortnite that let players buy in-game currency at a lower price by paying Epic directly. This bypassed Apple’s in-app payment system—and more importantly, avoided Apple’s 30% commission on each transaction.
Apple quickly removed Fortnite from the App Store, saying Epic had broken its rules. In response, Epic sued Apple, accusing it of anti-competitive behavior.
What’s Really at Stake?
This legal fight centers on control and money, especially regarding in-app purchases. Whenever you buy something inside an iPhone app—like game currency, a subscription, or bonus content—Apple takes a cut (up to 30%) if the app uses Apple’s built-in payment system.
Apple requires nearly all apps to use this system. Developers like Epic argue that this is unfair and limits competition. They believe app makers should be allowed to offer their own payment systems, or even create their own app stores on iOS devices.
Apple argues that its system protects user privacy and security. It also says the commission helps cover the costs of running the App Store and supporting developers.
So again, this isn’t about whether Fortnite is a good or bad game. It’s about whether Apple has too much control over how users pay for content inside that game—and every other iPhone app.
The Legal Journey So Far
Epic sued Apple in 2020, and in 2021, a U.S. judge ruled that Apple must allow app developers to tell users about other payment options outside the App Store—but didn’t require Apple to allow other payment systems directly inside apps.
Both sides appealed. Meanwhile, global attention shifted to how Apple’s App Store operates not just in the U.S., but in Europe and other regions where governments are demanding more openness.
What’s Happening Now (2025)
Thanks to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, Apple is now required to open up iOS to third-party app stores and payment systems—at least in Europe.
Epic recently announced plans to launch the Epic Games Store on iPhones in the EU. But Epic says Apple is still making it difficult by imposing strict technical requirements and charging new “core technology fees” that discourage competition.
Epic believes these are just new ways to keep tight control, even when regulations say Apple has to loosen up. Apple insists these requirements are necessary for protecting users and the integrity of the iPhone experience.
Why This Matters
This case is about much more than Fortnite. It could shape the future of mobile apps, digital purchases, and app marketplaces around the world.
If Epic succeeds, we might see lower prices, more choice for consumers, and greater freedom for developers to run their businesses. If Apple’s model holds, the App Store will continue to be the gatekeeper for how apps and in-app purchases work on iPhones.
The Bottom Line
In short, this is a battle over who gets to control the experience—and the money—when you tap “Buy” inside an app.
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