Epic Offers ‘Peace Proposal’ After US Court Ends Apple’s Control Over the App Store

A recent United States court ruling has significantly curtailed Apple’s control over the iOS App Store, finding the company in violation of a 2021 anti-steering injunction. The court determined that Apple can no longer prohibit developers from informing users about alternative payment methods, nor can it dictate the language or link placement used to communicate these options. Furthermore, the ruling bars Apple from charging commissions on transactions processed outside the App Store and prohibits the use of "scare screens" that discourage users from utilizing third-party payment systems. The court also noted evidence suggesting that an Apple executive provided false testimony during the proceedings, raising the possibility of criminal contempt charges.

In response to this legal development, Epic Games has proposed a settlement to end its long-standing litigation against Apple. Epic has offered to drop all active legal challenges—including its pursuit of a standalone, Epic-operated app store on iOS—provided that Apple applies the court’s new requirements on a global scale. If Apple agrees to these terms, Epic intends to return its flagship title, Fortnite, to the iOS platform worldwide, potentially as early as the week following the ruling.

This proposal marks a strategic pivot for Epic, which has previously faced judicial setbacks regarding its efforts to force Apple to allow third-party app stores on its devices. While Epic will continue to engage with legislators on the broader issue of platform competition, the company is signaling a desire to normalize its relationship with Apple. By leveraging the recent US court victory, Epic aims to secure a more open ecosystem for developers while restoring access to the massive iOS user base for its games.