Fortnite Tops US App Store After Five-Year Ban Lifted

After a five-year ban stemming from a legal battle over Apple's App Store payment policies, Fortnite has officially returned to the iOS App Store in the U.S., quickly rising to the top of the free game charts. Epic Games circumvented Apple's 30% commission by implementing its own payment system within the game, a move that initially led to Fortnite's removal and subsequent legal disputes. Despite Apple's resistance and ongoing appeals against a U.S. judge's ruling requiring alternative payment options, Fortnite's comeback was enabled by court pressure on Apple to allow such changes. Epic's CEO Tim Sweeney celebrated the return, highlighting the broader fight for app developer and consumer rights, while companies like Spotify and Microsoft expressed support for the court's injunction. Fortnite's return is currently limited to the U.S., with availability in the EU via Epic's Sweden subsidiary and planned releases in other regions forthcoming. The situation remains dynamic as Apple continues to challenge the ruling, leaving the future of Fortnite on iOS uncertain but its immediate impact undeniable.