On May 16, 2025, Epic Games announced that Apple rejected its latest Fortnite submission to the App Store, removing the game from iOS devices worldwide, including the European Union, where it had recently returned.
In a post on X, Epic Games stated, “Fortnite on iOS will be offline worldwide until Apple unblocks it,” highlighting the significant setback to the game’s anticipated comeback.
The rejection disrupts plans outlined by Epic CEO Tim Sweeney, who had confirmed Fortnite’s scheduled return for U.S. users and efforts to relaunch in the EU via the Epic Games Store for iOS. A planned Thursday update was also delayed due to Apple’s review process.
Apple has blocked our Fortnite submission so we cannot release to the US App Store or to the Epic Games Store for iOS in the European Union. Now, sadly, Fortnite on iOS will be offline worldwide until Apple unblocks it.
— Fortnite (@Fortnite) May 16, 2025The decision reignites tensions between Epic Games and Apple, stemming from a years-long dispute over App Store policies, including payment systems and developer rights.
Fortnite’s global iOS player base now faces indefinite unavailability, despite recent progress in regions like the EU under the Digital Markets Act. The conflict began in 2020 when Fortnite was first removed for bypassing App Store payments and continues to affect millions of players.
Apple just BLOCKED Fortnite returning to iOS 💀 pic.twitter.com/dMJp8fEU7p
— T5G (@Top5Gamingx) May 16, 2025Epic Games has not provided a timeline for Fortnite’s return to iOS, pending Apple’s reversal. The situation underscores ongoing challenges in the tech industry regarding app store governance and developer access.
