What's happened
Apple is restructuring its App Store team, splitting it into two divisions: one for its own store and another for alternative app stores in the EU. This follows the departure of long-time App Store VP Matt Fischer and is a response to regulatory pressures from the Digital Markets Act.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Ars Technica, Apple is restructuring its App Store team, which includes splitting it into two divisions to better manage new challenges posed by the Digital Markets Act. Matt Fischer's departure marks a significant change, as he has been with Apple for over two decades. The Japan Times highlights that this restructuring is a direct response to regulatory scrutiny regarding Apple's market power. Meanwhile, Epic Games has launched its own app store, allowing Fortnite to return to iOS in the EU, as reported by BBC News. This move underscores the ongoing tension between Epic and Apple, with Epic's CEO Tim Sweeney emphasizing the need for competition in the app market. The Guardian notes that while Fortnite is back on mobile in Europe, users outside the EU still face restrictions, illustrating the uneven landscape of app distribution.
How we got here
The restructuring comes as Apple faces increased regulatory scrutiny, particularly from the EU's Digital Markets Act, which mandates the allowance of alternative app stores. This follows a long-standing battle between Apple and developers like Epic Games over app distribution and fees.
Common question
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Why has Fortnite returned to mobile in Europe?
Epic Games has made a significant move by relaunching Fortnite on mobile devices in Europe. This decision comes after the implementation of the EU's Digital Markets Act, which has changed the landscape for app distribution. But what does this mean for players, especially those in the UK? Here are some common questions and answers about Fortnite's mobile comeback.
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Why is Fortnite Returning to Mobile Now?
Fortnite's return to mobile devices marks a significant moment in the gaming world, especially after a four-year hiatus. This comeback is not just about gameplay; it reflects broader changes in the mobile gaming landscape and the ongoing legal battles between Epic Games and major tech companies. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this exciting development.
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Why is Fortnite Returning to Mobile Now?
Fortnite's return to mobile devices marks a significant moment in gaming, especially after a four-year hiatus. With the introduction of the EU's Digital Markets Act, Epic Games has found a way back into the mobile market. This raises questions about the implications for players and the future of mobile gaming.
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What Are the Latest Regulatory Changes Affecting Google and Apple?
Recent regulatory changes are reshaping the landscape for tech giants like Google and Apple. With new rules emerging, many are left wondering how these changes will impact app developers, users, and the future of app stores. Below, we explore the most pressing questions surrounding these developments.
More on these topics
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Apple Inc. is an American multinational technology company headquartered in Cupertino, California, that designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services.
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Epic Games, Inc. is an American video game and software developer and publisher based in Cary, North Carolina. The company was founded by Tim Sweeney as Potomac Computer Systems in 1991, originally located in his parents' house in Potomac, Maryland.
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Fortnite is an online video game developed by Epic Games and released in 2017. It is available in three distinct game mode versions that otherwise share the same general gameplay and game engine: Fortnite: Save the World, a cooperative shooter-survival ga
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Google LLC is an American multinational technology company that specializes in Internet-related services and products, which include online advertising technologies, a search engine, cloud computing, software, and hardware.
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Android is a mobile operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open source software, designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
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Timothy Dean Sweeney is an American video game programmer, billionaire businessman and conservationist, known as the founder and CEO of Epic Games, and the creator of the Unreal Engine, a game development platform.