Epic Games has scored a significant, albeit incomplete, win in its ongoing battle with Apple and Google, paving the way for *Fortnite* to return to iPhones in Australia.
The Australian Federal Court ruled that both tech giants have abused their dominant positions in their respective app stores, specifically citing the 30% commission on in-app purchases as an anti-competitive practice. However, Judge Jonathan Beach dismissed claims of "unconscionable conduct" and consumer rights violations, limiting the scope of the victory.
A Landmark Ruling with Caveats
The decision marks a rare legal setback for Apple and Google, who have long faced criticism for their app store policies.
The court’s finding that the 30% fee stifles competition could set a precedent for future cases globally, challenging the tech giants’ control over digital marketplaces. Yet, the rejection of broader misconduct allegations means Epic’s triumph is tempered, leaving some legal questions unresolved.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney hailed the ruling as a step forward, announcing that *Fortnite* will return to the Epic Games Store on iOS “on a date yet to be determined.” The vague timeline suggests lingering hurdles, likely tied to ongoing negotiations or potential appeals, keeping fans in suspense.
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The Battle Rages On
Unsurprisingly, both Apple and Google have signaled their intent to appeal the decision, ensuring that the legal saga will continue. For Apple, the ruling threatens its tightly controlled App Store ecosystem, while Google faces similar scrutiny over the Play Store.
This ongoing battle royale — aptly mirroring *Fortnite*’s gameplay — highlights the tension between tech giants and developers seeking fairer terms.
As of 05:40 PM CEST on August 12, 2025, the Australian ruling has reignited discussions about app store monopolies worldwide. While *Fortnite*’s return to iOS in Australia is a win for Epic, the full resolution remains uncertain, with both sides gearing up for the next round in this high-stakes legal match.
