Apple is still planning to terminate Epic Games developer account as of August 28, and will not be approving any Fortnite game updates. Unfortunately for iOS Fortnite players, a new Fortnite season starts on August 27, meaning they will be left out of the action.
Epic Games failed in its attempt to obtain a temporary restraining order from a Northern Califonia court to prevent Apple from blocking Fortnite updates and terminating its developer account. Unfortunately for the game developer, a judge on Monday ruled in favor of Apple about the Fortnite app.
Apple has applauded the decision and in a statement to Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, says it’s ready to welcome Fortnite back to the App Store if Epic Games will remove the game’s new direct payment option.
We thank the court for recognizing that Epic’s problem is entirely self-inflicted and is in their power to resolve. Our very first priority is making sure App Store users have a great experience in a safe and trusted environment, including iPhone users who play Fortnite and who are looking forward to the game’s next season.
We agree with Judge Gonzalez-Rogers that ‘the sensible way to proceed’ is for Epic to comply with the App Store guidelines and continue to operate while the case proceeds. If Epic takes the steps the judge has recommended, we will gladly welcome Fortnite back onto iOS. We look forward to making our case to the court in September.
There was one bright spot in court for Epic Games, as the judge has blocked Apple restricting, suspending, or terminating any affiliate of Epic Games, such as Epic International, from Apple’s Developer Program. This means Epic can continue to work on and to distribute the Unreal Engine. The restraining order goes into effect immediately and will remain in force until the court issues an order on the motion for a preliminary injunction.
The hearing for the preliminary injunction is set to take place on Monday, September 28, 2020.