Fortnite, the globally popular battle royale game by Epic Games, has officially returned to the U.S. Apple App Store after nearly five years of absence. Removed in 2020 due to a legal dispute over Apple’s in-app payment policies, Fortnite’s comeback marks a major milestone in the ongoing battle between Epic Games and Apple. Meanwhile, Android players can continue to enjoy Fortnite by downloading it safely through APKPure and other official sources. Here’s everything you need to know about Fortnite’s return and how to get it on your iPhone and Android devices.
Fortnite’s Return to the U.S. Apple App Store Marks the End of a Prolonged Legal Battle
Fortnite was removed from the Apple App Store in August 2020 after Epic Games implemented its own direct payment system, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission on in-app purchases. This led to a high-profile legal dispute accusing Apple of monopolistic practices. Following a landmark court ruling in April 2025 that restricted Apple’s control over external payment links, Epic Games resubmitted Fortnite for App Store approval. After an extended review and legal pressure, Apple approved Fortnite’s return on May 20, 2025, allowing U.S. iPhone and iPad users to access the game again. Epic also made Fortnite available via the Epic Games Store and AltStore in Europe, while CEO Tim Sweeney expressed hopes for a global return if Apple embraces a commission-free payment model.
Image Credit: The Guardian
How Fortnite’s New Dual Payment System Offers Benefits to Players and Developers
With Fortnite’s return to iOS, players can now purchase V-Bucks either through Apple’s in-app purchase system or Epic’s own payment platform. Epic incentivizes the use of its payment system by offering a 20% rebate in Epic Rewards, which can be redeemed across Fortnite and other Epic titles such as League of Legends and Fall Guys. This dual payment option not only provides players with savings but also challenges traditional mobile game monetization models by encouraging direct payments that bypass Apple’s fees.
Fortnite’s Availability Varies Globally, with Alternative Access on iOS Outside the U.S.
While Fortnite is back on the U.S. App Store, it remains unavailable on some iOS stores worldwide due to ongoing disputes and Apple’s restrictions. In the European Union, iOS users can download Fortnite through alternative platforms like the Epic Games Store app and AltStore, which are permitted under regional regulations. For regions where direct downloads are blocked, players can still access Fortnite via cloud gaming services, ensuring continued play despite App Store limitations.
How to Download Fortnite on iPhone from the App Store
1. Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad (available in the U.S.).
2. Search for Fortnite or use the direct link shared by Epic Games.
3. Tap Get to download and install the game.
4. Launch Fortnite, log in with your Epic Games account, and start playing.
For players outside the U.S., Fortnite can be accessed via the Epic Games Store app or AltStore on iOS devices. Detailed guides are available on the Epic Games website and community channels.
Image Credit: The Guardian
How to Download Fortnite on Android via APKPure
To install Fortnite on your mobile device:
Step 1: Visit APKPure.com and search for Fortnite.
Step 2: Click on the Download APK button to start downloading it on your mobile.
Step 3: Once the download is completed, open the APK file and start the installation.
Step 4: Once the installation is completed, launch the game and start playing Fortnite on your mobile device immediately.
Stay Connected with Fortnite on Social Media
Fortnite’s return to the U.S. Apple App Store after a five-year absence marks a significant milestone in mobile gaming, concluding a lengthy legal dispute and introducing new payment options and player incentives. U.S. iPhone users can now conveniently download Fortnite directly from the App Store, while Android players are encouraged to use trusted platforms like APKPure for safe installation. With its seamless cross-platform play and ongoing content updates, Fortnite continues to be one of the world’s most popular and engaging battle royale games.
Download Fortnite today on your iPhone from the App Store or get the latest Android APK on APKPure to jump back into the action!