Fortnite is officially making its comeback to iPhones in Australia after Epic Games scored a landmark legal win against Apple and Google. The Federal Court, led by Justice Jonathan Beach, ruled that the tech giants violated Australian competition laws by blocking developers from distributing apps outside their official stores and restricting in-app payment options. 
The decision marks a pivotal moment in the battle for fairer digital marketplaces.
For years, Apple and Google have been accused of monopolistic practices that choke competition and limit user choice. Epic Games’ victory is a game-changer, allowing iOS users in Australia to download Fortnite directly without complex workarounds – a move expected to benefit both players and developers.
This ruling aligns with similar developments worldwide. Earlier in May 2025, Fortnite returned to the App Store in other regions after courts allowed external payment methods. In the EU, the Digital Markets Act has already paved the way for the game’s return via the Epic Games Store. Now, with Australia joining the momentum, global pressure is mounting to loosen app store restrictions.
Apple, unsurprisingly, has expressed its disapproval, warning that opening the ecosystem to third-party stores could undermine security and privacy protections. The company is considering an appeal, but critics argue that such concerns are a smokescreen to maintain dominance. Epic’s win sets a precedent for a more open and competitive app environment – and for many, it signals that the era of app store monopolies is starting to crack.
While Fortnite’s return is a headline-worthy moment for gamers, it also represents a deeper shift in how digital marketplaces operate, potentially reshaping the rules of app distribution and payment systems for years to come.