Fortnite is coming back to the App Store in Australia tomorrow, Epic Games said, after an Australian federal judge ordered Apple to open iOS to alternative app distribution. The ruling follows a years-long antitrust battle between Epic and Apple in Australia.
In a 235-page decision, Justice Jonathan Beach found Apple held a substantial degree of power in the iOS app distribution and in-app payment markets and used its developer agreements and App Store guidelines to restrict competition, according to Reuters and 9to5Mac. Apple confirmed it plans to appeal and will request a stay.
What the Australian App Store ruling orders
The order requires Apple to let Australian iPhone users install apps from third-party app stores and websites from March 1, 2027. Apple can ask for an extension to May 3, 2027, but the court must approve it.
Beyond app distribution, the decision limits some of Apple's App Store payment rules. The court barred Apple from forcing developers to report transactions made through alternative payment providers, or to offer Apple's payment system alongside their preferred alternatives.
Apple did secure some wins. Judge Beach allowed the company to keep security scanning and notarization requirements for apps distributed outside the App Store, and he rejected Epic's push to make the injunctions apply worldwide.
- iPhone users with Australian Apple Accounts can install apps from third-party app stores and websites starting March 1, 2027.
- Apple has until February 15 to request an extension to May 3, 2027, subject to court approval.
- The court cited Apple's 2020 actions against Epic, including blocking Epic Direct Pay, removing Fortnite and terminating Epic's developer account.
