Epic vs. Apple: Court Battle Over Fortnite Submission
Background of the Dispute
Epic Games has filed a motion with District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, seeking an order compelling Apple to review and potentially approve the resubmission of Fortnite to the US App Store. This is part of ongoing legal tensions between the two companies, particularly in light of a previous ruling that limited Apple’s ability to reject apps based on their inclusion of external payment links.
Apple’s Response and Allegations of Retaliation
In a communication shared by Epic, Apple indicated it would not proceed with the Fortnite submission until the Ninth Circuit addresses its request for a partial stay on the new injunction. Epic claims that this delay is retaliatory due to its ongoing legal disputes with Apple. The company highlights that Apple had previously assured it and the court that any compliant resubmission would be approved, a condition Epic asserts its current submission meets.
Impact on European Release
Epic asserts that the inability to release Fortnite in the European market is directly tied to Apple’s actions in blocking the app’s US submission. Apple contends that the request for a resubmission without the US storefront was merely a means to avoid affecting Fortnite’s availability in other regions. However, Epic argues that this requirement could lead to the submission of multiple versions, conflicting with Apple’s own guidelines.
Legal Proceedings and Court’s Authority
Epic seeks to have the court enforce its earlier injunction against Apple and to declare the company in contempt of court. Furthermore, they are requesting that Apple be mandated to accept any compliant Epic application, including Fortnite, for distribution on the US App Store. It is worth noting that in past rulings, Judge Gonzalez Rogers has not mandated the return of Fortnite to the store, acknowledging that Epic had breached its developer agreement with Apple.
Judge’s Sentiments and the Path Forward
The judge’s previous rulings seemed to express frustration with Apple’s actions, which may influence the outcome of this case. The distinction between past and present will likely hinge on the court’s perception of Apple’s compliance with its directives.
Awaiting Apple’s Commentary
As of now, Apple has not provided a response to inquiries regarding this latest development in the ongoing saga with Epic Games.