Epic Games Criticizes Apple Over Fortnite iOS Approval Delay, Fake Apps Worldwide

Epic Games has been trying to get Fortnite back on the US iOS App Store after a court ruling barred Apple from charging fees on purchases made outside the App Store, but Apple has delayed approving the game’s submissions. Despite Apple’s usual rapid review process, Fortnite’s updates remain unapproved weeks after submission, frustrating Epic CEO Tim Sweeney, who has publicly pressured Apple and directly appealed to CEO Tim Cook on social media. Meanwhile, Apple has allowed several Fortnite lookalike games with poor user ratings and gameplay onto the App Store, sparking criticism over inconsistent app review standards. Epic has pointed out these clones to highlight the contradiction of Apple blocking the authentic Fortnite while permitting inferior copies. The ongoing standoff underscores broader tensions over platform control and competition, with Epic accusing Apple of continuing anticompetitive behavior despite court rulings. The situation remains unresolved, with Epic refiling Fortnite updates to meet simultaneous release schedules and Apple yet to approve the submissions.