Is Fortnite Blocked on Apple’s US and EU App Stores? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’ve been wondering why Fortnite is suddenly unavailable on Apple’s App Store in the US and EU, you’re not alone. Epic Games recently revealed that Apple is blocking Fortnite from being listed in both the U.S. and European Union App Stores, causing the popular game to go offline on iOS devices worldwide. This surprising development follows a landmark legal victory for Epic, where Apple was forced to allow external payments in its U.S. App Store, challenging the long-standing commission model. So, what’s causing this blockage, and what does it mean for Fortnite fans? Let’s break it down.
Why Did Apple Block Fortnite After Epic’s Legal Win?
After winning the court ruling that forced Apple to permit alternative payment options, Epic Games promptly attempted to resubmit Fortnite to the U.S. App Store on May 9, 2025. However, Apple did not accept the submission for an entire week, prompting Epic to withdraw and resubmit the update. According to Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney, Fortnite requires weekly updates to keep gameplay fresh across all platforms, meaning delays in app updates severely impact players. The company sent a new version for Apple’s review on May 14, but Apple has since blocked the app's release in both the U.S. and the EU.
What Does This Mean for Fortnite Players on iOS?
As a result of Apple’s blocking action, Fortnite’s latest iOS version cannot be released, and the game remains offline on all Apple devices worldwide. Epic Games has confirmed via social media that Fortnite on iOS will stay unavailable until Apple lifts this block. For players, this means no new content, updates, or gameplay on iPhones and iPads for the foreseeable future, creating frustration for the large Fortnite community relying on iOS access.
The Ongoing Battle Between Epic Games and Apple
This clash highlights the ongoing tensions between app developers and platform owners regarding app store policies, commissions, and control over app distribution. Epic’s legal victory was a milestone in the fight against Apple’s monopoly on App Store payments, but this recent block signals continued challenges ahead. The dispute also raises important questions about fair competition, user access, and the future of mobile gaming on iOS.
What’s Next for Fortnite on Apple Devices?
Both Epic Games and Apple have been contacted for further comments, but as of now, the situation remains unresolved. Fortnite’s absence from Apple’s App Store impacts revenue, player engagement, and the broader ecosystem of iOS gaming apps. Users and developers alike are watching closely to see if Apple will reverse its decision or if Epic will find new ways to distribute Fortnite on iOS.
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