Is Fortnite Available Again on iPhone?

The saga of Fortnite on iPhones has been fraught with complexity for several years. Following the commencement of a legal dispute between Epic Games and Apple in 2020, users on iOS have faced significant barriers in accessing the game. Specifically, Fortnite was removed from the App Store due to alleged violations of Apple’s policies. However, recent developments suggest a positive turn of events: Fortnite has officially made its return to iPhones in the EU region, marking a significant milestone. While other regions await updates regarding their release timelines, the comeback appears to be on the horizon.

This article will delve into potential global release dates for Fortnite on iPhones, as well as alternative gaming options currently available.

Understanding the Epic Games vs. Apple Legal Battle

The conflict between Epic Games and Apple ignited in August 2020 when Epic implemented its own in-app payment system within Fortnite to circumvent Apple’s hefty 30% fee. In retaliation, Apple promptly removed Fortnite from its App Store, which set off a lengthy legal battle that unfolded over the subsequent years.

Timeline of Key Events

From 2020 to 2025, several pivotal events have shaped the legal landscape surrounding Fortnite:

August 2020: Apple removes Fortnite from the App Store following Epic Games’ introduction of its independent payment method. Almost immediately, Epic files a lawsuit.
2020 – Present: Users who had not uninstalled the game continued to access Fortnite up until Chapter 2, Season 3.
2021 – 2023: The legal dispute drags on with appeals surfacing from both parties.
January 2024: The U.S. Supreme Court declines to review appeals submitted by both Epic Games and Apple.
March 2024: In compliance with the Digital Markets Act, Apple allows third-party app stores on iOS in the EU.
August 2024: Fortnite returns on iPhones within the EU using the Epic Games Store, while the movement to reintroduce the game to the U.S. market resumes.
April 2025: Apple is found to be in willful violation of an injunction related to external purchases.
May 2025: Apple appeals the contempt ruling, seeking to delay changes to its App Store policies.

The journey to the re-release of Fortnite in the Epic Games Store has been lengthy due to these ongoing legal complexities. Nonetheless, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney assures users that the game will launch for U.S. players in May 2025, with plans for a worldwide rollout on iOS shortly thereafter, although no specific dates have been announced yet.

How to Play Fortnite on iPhone: Alternative Methods

Even though Fortnite is not yet available globally on the App Store, players can still enjoy the game through convenient, legal alternatives in various regions:

1) Xbox Cloud Gaming (Free)

Xbox Cloud Gaming allows iPhone users to play directly via their web browser, eliminating the need for downloads. Currently, this service is accessible in 28 countries:

Argentina
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brazil
Canada
Czech Republic
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Mexico
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
United States

To begin playing, simply follow these steps:

Navigate to the Xbox Cloud Gaming website using your browser.
Sign in with your Microsoft account.
Search for and select Fortnite to start playing.

2) Amazon Luna (Free with Amazon Prime)

Amazon Luna, a cloud gaming platform, offers Prime members the ability to access games on their iPhones via Safari. Those who do not have an Amazon Prime account can opt for a subscription to Luna+. This service is currently available in 14 countries: