Apple blocks Epic Games' Fortnite App Store submission, setting up potential new lawsuit over approval process

Summary

Apple has blocked Epic Games' Fortnite submission to the App Store, continuing a legal standoff that began in August 2020. The block centers on Epic's use of third-party payment processing for in-app purchases, specifically Fortnite V-Bucks, which sidesteps Apple's standard 30% commission.

Epic and observers suggest this move creates grounds for a new lawsuit focused specifically on Apple's app review process rather than the underlying payment dispute. Tim Sweeney argued that Apple's app review team should "accept or reject according to the plain language of their guidelines" and not weaponize reviews "as a tool to delay or obstruct competition, due process, or free speech."

Blocking Fortnite's return to iOS could cost Epic nine figures in foregone revenue, particularly given the surge in demand and new revenue that would typically follow reinstatement. Even delays of days compound the damage.

Apple maintains it is operating within the letter of the law by warning users about third-party checkout and maintaining technical compliance with court settlements. Observers characterize the approach differently. Apple appears to be pushing the limits of what it can legally do without technically breaking court orders, following the letter of prior rulings while ignoring their intent.

This dispute extends a protracted conflict. The first case has already consumed years of litigation, and a new lawsuit over approval process methodology could extend the conflict further.