Apple’s Block on Epic Games’ App Store Launch Raises Legal Questions across Europe

Apple has taken a controversial step by blocking Epic Games, the creator of “Fortnite,” from launching its own app store for iPhone and iPad users in Europe. This decision comes as a part of a long-standing legal dispute between the two tech giants.

The tech company based in Cupertino, California, has terminated Epic Games’ account for their Swedish branch, preventing the gaming developer from offering “Fortnite” and the “Epic Games Store” directly to Apple customers. Apple made this move just a day before a crucial deadline to comply with the European Digital Markets Act, aiming to regulate the activities of so-called “gatekeeper” tech firms, including Apple.

While Apple claims to have the right to terminate its agreement with Epic Games due to prior court rulings, the gaming company believes that Apple’s actions violate the intent of the new legal regulations in Europe. The disputes between the two companies have even reached the United States Supreme Court.

Epic Games has criticized Apple for its handling of the App Store, especially regarding the fees charged to developers for in-app purchases. This clash is part of the ongoing battle between the two companies over control and competition in the digital market.

**FAQ Section:**

1. **Why did Apple block Epic Games from launching their own app store for iPhone and iPad users in Europe?**
Apple blocked Epic Games as part of a long-standing legal dispute between the two companies.

2. **What are the consequences of Apple blocking Epic Games’ account?**
It prevents the gaming company from offering “Fortnite” and the “Epic Games Store” directly to Apple customers.

3. **Why does Epic Games consider Apple’s decision a violation of the digital market directive?**
Epic Games believes Apple’s decision undermines true competition on iOS devices.

4. **What was the previous court ruling concerning Apple’s actions?**
Previous court rulings stated that Apple has the exclusive right to terminate its agreement with Epic Games in case of a breach.

5. **What were the previous disputes between Epic Games and Apple?**
In 2020, Apple blocked access to “Fortnite” on the App Store after Epic Games enabled direct payments. The legal battle concluded in favor of Apple in 2021.

6. **What legal consequences may arise from this dispute?**
Appeals from both companies have reached the US Supreme Court, although the case has not been accepted for review this year.

**Glossary:**

– **Epic Games:** A company specializing in the production and publishing of computer games, best known as the publisher of “Fortnite.”
– **App Store:** An application store for Apple devices managed by Apple Inc.
– **Digital Markets Act:** A directive aimed at limiting the actions of so-called “gatekeeper” tech companies, including Apple.

**Related Links:**
– [Apple](https://www.apple.com)
– [Epic Games](https://www.epicgames.com)

The source of the article is from the blog zaman.co.at