The Epic Games Store is set to make its debut on iOS devices in Japan in late 2025, following the passage of a new law in Japan that opens up mobile app stores.
The long-awaited return of Fortnite to iOS devices is finally on the horizon, at least in Japan. The Japanese government and Diet (parliament) have passed a new law that opens up mobile app stores, allowing for the distribution of alternative app stores such as the Epic Games Store on iOS and other platforms.
Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, was quick to point out this development as a victory for the company. However, it's important to note that Epic's promise for the arrival of Fortnite and the Epic Games Store to iOS in Japan is set for late 2025.
Fortnite Returns to iOS in Japan, Epic Promises Store Arrival in 2025
This timeline indicates that the international rollout of the Epic Games Store may also slide into 2025. Legislation doesn't take place overnight, and given the time required to implement the new law and resolve any potential legal challenges, late 2025 is a realistic timeframe. This projection aligns with the expected arrival of the Epic Games Store in the UK.
Japan's new law follows the trend of other legislation, such as the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union and proposed changes in the United States. These laws aim to prevent dominant app store operators, like Google and Apple, from preventing competing services from being sold on their storefronts.
The legislation effectively opens up the app ecosystem, a move that Apple has opposed on security grounds. For average users and mobile gamers, this could lead to a wave of new app stores offering incentives for adoption. However, it could also create confusion and fragmentation.
Regardless of the timeline, the new law in Japan is a significant victory for Epic Games and other companies that have challenged Apple's dominance in the mobile app market. Epic has been locked in a legal battle with Apple over the latter's App Store policies, which limit the distribution of alternative app stores.
The Japanese law effectively nullifies Apple's arguments that limiting alternative app stores is necessary for security reasons. This precedent could strengthen Epic's case in other jurisdictions.
Despite the excitement surrounding the return of Fortnite to iOS in Japan, users should exercise caution when downloading apps from alternative app stores. While these stores may offer attractive incentives, they may also present security risks.
It's advisable to wait for the official launch of the Epic Games Store in Japan and other regions before switching to alternative app stores. In the meantime, there's no shortage of new games to try on iOS devices.
