Epic Games is Suing Apple and Google Over Fortnite!




/ 4 years ago
epic games logo mds

It’s been well-known for quite some time now that despite Fortnite being available on both the Apple and Google storefronts, Epic Games hasn’t been entirely happy with the terms. Largely because Apple and (to a lesser extent) Google, requires that a cut of all money paid from consumers goes to them. In Apple’s case specifically, 30%.

So for a game like Fortnite, where the vast majority of money is made from microtransactions, this has clearly been a policy to which Epic Games has been more than a little disagreeable.

Epic Games Sues Google & Apple

So, what happened? Well, Epic Games attempted to ‘cut out the middle man’ by making all transactions paid directly to them (rather than via the storefronts). And, as you might expect, Apple and Google was not happy about this. They were, in fact, so unhappy that Fortnite was pulled from both platforms.

Well, it seems that Epic Games has taken this decision very angrily as in a report via TechPowerUp, they have now launched official legal action against both companies. Not, incidentally, over the fact that Fortnite was removed though.

fortnite

What Are They Suing For?

As you’re probably already thinking, both Apple and Google will always have the say on what apps are and are not allowed on their platforms. As such, Epic Games could not sue them simply for Fortnite being taken down. So, what are they suing them for? Well, it largely boils down to two accusations made by Epic Games:

  • Apple/Google are attempting to monopolize the distribution of software to smartphone/smart devices
  • Apple/Google are attempting to monopolize transactions ensuring that they will always receive a commission

In fairness, as mad as this lawsuit seems, I do think that Epic Games does have some pretty valid points here. That being said though, given that Apple, Google, and Epic Games are 3 of the world’s largest ‘tech brands’, they clearly have the money to get a huge team of bloody good lawyers working on this. Depending on the verdict though, this case could have some pretty wide implications. So, put simply, don’t expect to see this resolved any time soon! Well, not unless Apple and Google decide to back down and, quite frankly, I wouldn’t expect that to happen!

What do you think? – Let us know in the comments!


Topics: , , , , , , , , ,

Support eTeknix.com

By supporting eTeknix, you help us grow and continue to bring you the latest newsreviews, and competitions. Follow us on FacebookTwitter and Instagram to keep up with the latest technology news, reviews and more. Share your favourite articles, chat with the team and more. Also check out eTeknix YouTube, where you'll find our latest video reviews, event coverage and features in 4K!

Looking for more exciting features on the latest technology? Check out our What We Know So Far section or our Fun Reads for some interesting original features.

eTeknix Facebook eTeknix Twitter eTeknix Instagram eTeknix Instagram
  • Be Social With eTeknix

    Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram Reddit RSS Discord Patreon TikTok Twitch
  • Features


Send this to a friend
})