Epic Games Submits Fortnite and Epic Games Store to Apple for Notarization
Epic Games is taking advantage of the special EU App Store rules by submitting Fortnite and the Epic Games Store to Apple for notarization. This move comes after Fortnite was kicked out of the App Store last year for circumventing Apple’s In-App Purchase system. However, with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act legislation, Epic Games now sees an opportunity to return to iOS in the European Union.
The Digital Markets Act requires gatekeepers like Apple to open up their platforms and allow third-party software. But before being approved, apps must go through a notarization process, which includes a human review by Apple. This process can be lengthy and opaque, taking months to complete. Additionally, approved apps are subject to the Core Technology Fee, which requires a payment of 50 euro cents per install per year when app downloads exceed one million units.
Criticism has been raised by companies like Epic Games and Spotify regarding the fees and rules in alternative Apple business terms. They argue that Apple is still not in compliance with the DMA. In fact, the European Commission has recently begun formally investigating the Core Technology Fee and the surrounding rules for alternative app marketplaces.
While the EU App Store rules have provided an opportunity for companies to offer alternatives to the App Store, many have been hesitant due to the associated fees and compliance requirements set by Apple. However, with Epic Games submitting Fortnite and the Epic Games Store for notarization, they may be leading the way for others to follow suit.
Moving forward, these developments highlight the ongoing discussion surrounding app store regulations and the power of gatekeepers in the app ecosystem. The outcome of the European Commission’s investigation into Apple’s practices will likely have significant implications for the future of app distribution and competition within the industry.
Here are some additional facts that are relevant to the topic:
1. The European Union’s Digital Markets Act aims to prevent anti-competitive behaviors by large tech companies, such as Apple, by requiring them to open up their platforms to third-party software and services.
2. Apple has faced criticism from developers and lawmakers around the world for its App Store fees, which can range from 15% to 30% of in-app purchases and subscriptions.
3. In addition to Epic Games, other major companies like Spotify and Match Group (owner of Tinder) have also raised concerns about Apple’s App Store fees and policies.
4. The Core Technology Fee, which requires a payment of 50 euro cents per install per year when app downloads exceed one million units, has been a particular point of contention for developers.
5. The European Commission’s investigation into Apple’s practices is still ongoing, and the outcome could have wider implications for the app industry and app store regulations globally.
Key questions and answers:
– What is the purpose of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act?
The act aims to prevent anti-competitive behaviors by large tech companies and promote a more open and competitive digital market.
– Why did Epic Games submit Fortnite and the Epic Games Store for notarization?
They are taking advantage of the EU App Store rules to potentially make a return to the iOS platform in the European Union.
– What are some of the main criticisms against Apple’s App Store fees and rules?
Developers, including Epic Games and Spotify, argue that the fees are excessive and that Apple is not in compliance with the Digital Markets Act.
– What is the Core Technology Fee?
It is a payment required by Apple for apps that exceed one million downloads, amounting to 50 euro cents per install per year.
Key challenges or controversies associated with the topic:
– The lengthy and opaque notarization process for app approvals, which can take months to complete, presents a challenge for developers.
– The European Commission’s investigation into Apple’s Core Technology Fee and app marketplace rules has sparked controversy and could lead to potential changes in the industry.
Advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages:
– The Digital Markets Act provides an opportunity for companies to offer alternatives to Apple’s App Store and potentially increase competition.
– By submitting Fortnite and the Epic Games Store for notarization, Epic Games may open the door for other developers to follow suit in challenging Apple’s rules and fees.
Disadvantages:
– The notarization process can be time-consuming and may not guarantee approval, leading to delays and uncertainty for developers.
– The Core Technology Fee and other App Store fees can significantly impact the profitability of developers and may hinder innovation in the app ecosystem.
Suggested related link:
European Commission – Press release
