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Apple and Google removed the popular Fortnite game from their app stores after the game’s developer rolled out a direct payment plan that bypasses their platforms.
Apple and Google are saving 30 percent on in-app revenue from games, which has long been a sore point with developers.
Fortnite is free, but users can pay for in-game equipment such as weapons and skins.
The developer, Epic Games, said in a blog post, Thursday, that it is launching Epic Direct Payments, a direct payment plan for Apple’s iOS and Google Play.
According to Epic, the system is the same payment system that is already used to process payments on PC and Mac computers as well as Android phones.
Apple and Google said the service was against their guidelines.
“Epic has enabled a feature in its app that has not been reviewed or approved by Apple, with the express intention of violating the App Store’s in-app payment guidelines, which apply to any developer who sells digital goods or sells services, “Apple said in a statement.
Google said Fortnite will remain available on Android, just not through its App Store. Android users can download the app from other app stores, although this is generally not an option for iPhone users.
Epic Games did not immediately return a request for comment.
The company has also released a clever parody video of Apple’s 1984 Super Bowl commercial. “Epic Games has defied the App Store Monopoly. In retaliation, Apple is blocking Fortnite from a billion devices. Join the fight to stop 2020 from becoming 1984,” reads the message in the video.
“Epic enabled a feature in its app which was not reviewed or approved by Apple, and they did so with the express intent of violating the App Store guidelines regarding in-app payments that apply to every developer who sells digital goods or services…The fact that their business interests now lead them to push for a special arrangement does not change the fact that these guidelines create a level playing field for all developers and make the store safe for all users,” Apple said in a statement to The Verge.
Then a Google spokesperson had to say regarding the situation: “For game developers who choose to use the Play Store, we have consistent policies that are fair to developers and keep the store safe for users. While Fortnite remains available on Android, we can no longer make it available on Play because it violates our policies. However, we welcome the opportunity to continue our discussions with Epic and bring Fortnite back to Google Play.”
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