Summary
- Fortnite comes back to iOS devices in the United States this week after the court ruled Apple to violate the 2021 injunction against anticompetitive practices.
- Epic Games already submitted Fortnite to Apple for review and proposed extending the “friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework” worldwide.
- Previously, Fortnite returned to iOS users in the European Union via Epic’s mobile app store due to the Digital Markets Act.
When will Fortnite come back to iOS? It’s been five years since Apple users last saw Fortnite in their devices. Finally, it’s making its way back to iOS in the United States after the lengthy legal battle between Epic Games and Apple. Here’s more information shared about the return of Fortnite to iOS devices.
Fortnite’s Return to the US App Store
The recent announcements revealed the return of Fortnite to the iOS App Store in the United States this week. This put an end to the question of when will Fortnite come back to iOS for many Apple gamers. The announcement came through on May 1, 2025, from Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney confirming release next week.
Epic Games already sent Fortnite to Apple for review and has only been waiting for its approval, which can come at any time. Definitely, it’s a great time for any US iOS users who have been playing Fortnite for so long. This will be available on their devices before the end of this week.
Moreover, the return is accompanied by the beginning of the Fornite’s latest season featuring Star Wars. Players can purchase Galactic Battle Pass and earn access to Star Wars-related content. They also have enough time to catch up and unlock seasonal rewards available.
The Legal Battle Between Epic Games and Apple
It has been almost five years since Fortnite disappeared from iOS devices due to a dispute in August 2020. Epic Games has implemented a direct payment option within Fortnite bypassing Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases. Through this payment option, players on iOS and Google Play can directly purchase V-Bucks from Epic.
Due to this, Apple immediately removed Fortnite from its App Store and started a lengthy legal battle. On April 30, 2025, the resolution put an end to the dispute with the judge ruling that Apple violated the Court’s 2021 Injunction.
This restrains and prohibits Apple’s anticompetitive conduct including unfair pricing practices. Now, Apple could no longer impede developers’ communication with users nor impose new commissions for off-app purchases. It will serve as a landmark decision for future similar cases to exist.
Epic’s Peace Proposal for Worldwide Return
In the meantime, Fortnite’s iOS return remains limited to the United States. Epic Games has extended a proposal to Apple, allowing the return of the battle royale game to the App Store worldwide. In Tim Sweeney’s statement, he wishes for Apple to extend the court friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework worldwide. In return, Epic Games will return Fortnite to Apple Store worldwide and drop any litigation on the topic.
Last year, Fortnite returned to iOS in the European Union via their mobile store app. The Digital Markets Act allows them to easily come back to European countries. With this proposal in motion, players across the world can enjoy the game once again.
Potential Rewards for Returning Players
Although not yet confirmed, there are chances that Epic Games compensate players who lost access to Fortnite on iOS. After returning to iOS devices in the European Union, they gave away Katalina skin for free to players. By logging in on their mobile device, they gain additional XP and the cosmetic.
It is likely that US players will experience similar mobile-exclusive quests and free cosmetics as part of Fortnite’s iOS return. It can serve as their incentive for returning players and a thank-you gift for their patience during their absence. All certainly will benefit players who missed the battle royale game.
Conclusion
Now, when will Fortnite come back to iOS? Epic Games confidently assures players that it’ll be as early as this week. The announcement on May 1, 2025, opened up the possible return of Fortnite not just in iOS United States but across the globe. Hopefully, the proposal returns in favor of players that’s been missing the battle royale game on their mobiles.
