Apple recently threatened to terminate Epic Games’ Developer Program membership in response to the developer’s decision to introduce direct payment in Fortnite for iPhone and iPad.
Epic Games adds direct payment in Fortnite
Almost two weeks ago, Epic Games decided to add direct payment inside Fornite on iOS and Android to “pass along the savings to players”. This will allow users to save up to 20% as compared to purchasing V-Bucks via Play Store or App Store. Epic Games believes that the 30% tax cut that Apple implements is unpair and forces developers to use their payment processing service.
Apple retaliates by removing Fornite from App Store
Apple then decided to remove Fornite from App Store, preventing users from installing and updating their game on iOS. Not only that, but the tech giant also wants to revoke all accounts that are affiliated with Epic and their access to developer tools.
“Apple’s intention to cut off access to developer tools and cripple the Unreal Engine is a naked effort to exert business leverage over Epic to try to get Epic to back down from challenging Apple’s unlawful contact,” the motion reads.
Microsoft sides with Epic
Today we filed a statement in support of Epic’s request to keep access to the Apple SDK for its Unreal Engine. Ensuring that Epic has access to the latest Apple technology is the right thing for gamer developers & gamers https://t.co/72bLdDkvUx
— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) August 23, 2020
Microsoft also supports Epic’s move with its own statement against Apple, claiming that games build on Unreal Engine will be at a great disadvantage due to Apple’s revocation.
