Fortnite to Return to iPhone in Australia Tomorrow
A federal court ruling clears the way for Epic Games to bring its popular title back to Australian iOS devices.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in eSports
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Fortnite is scheduled to return to the iPhone in Australia tomorrow, 23 October 2026. This development follows a legal victory for Epic Games against Apple, which challenged the tech giant's restrictive App Store practices.
Why it matters
The return of the game signals a major shift in how mobile software is distributed, as it highlights the success of Epic Games in challenging Apple's control over its ecosystem. This move provides developers with new freedom to bypass proprietary payment systems on iOS devices within the country.
The ruling mandates that Apple must allow third-party app stores and alternative payment systems across iOS. Apple is currently prohibited from charging fees for purchases made through these independent third-party channels.
The players
Apple
Apple is a global technology company that designs, manufactures, and markets smartphones, personal computers, tablets, wearables, and accessories.
Epic Games
Epic Games is an American video game and software developer known for creating the Unreal Engine and the battle royale game Fortnite.
Australian Federal Court
The Australian Federal Court is a superior court of record in Australia that exercises jurisdiction over matters including federal law and competition regulation.
The details
Under the new court order, Apple is required to permit users to download apps directly from developers and utilize external payment methods for transactions. Consequently, Apple will no longer be able to mandate the use of its own In-App Purchase system for content in Australia.
Timeline
23 October 2026: Fortnite is scheduled to return to the iPhone in Australia.
March 2027: Apple must complete full compliance with the new App Store operating rules.
Season Trajectory
The ruling represents a landmark shift in the mobile gaming landscape, moving away from the closed-loop system that has long defined the platform. It effectively forces a transition toward a more open marketplace that mirrors the competitive dynamics seen in other digital distribution sectors.
iPhone users in Australia will gain the ability to download apps directly from developers and use third-party payment options starting tomorrow. This change will likely lead to increased payment flexibility for players who previously had to use Apple's proprietary billing system.
The takeaway
This change marks a significant turning point for Australian gamers who have been waiting for the return of major titles to their devices. Readers should monitor future updates from their favourite developers to see if they choose to bypass the standard App Store model.
What happens next
Apple is required to fully implement the new operating rules mandated by the court by March 2027.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving landscape of digital competition, explore the eSports section.
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Do you support requiring Apple to allow third-party app stores on iPhones?
