Fortnite Still Isn’t Back on iPhone, and Epic Games Wants to Know Why
Nearly a week has passed since Epic Games submitted Fortnite for approval on Apple’s App Store, and the developer is still waiting for a response. Despite following the usual submission process, Apple has yet to review or acknowledge the app’s return, raising eyebrows at Epic and among observers tracking the long-running legal battle between the two tech giants.
According to Epic CEO Tim Sweeney, the company submitted the updated Fortnite app last Friday with the goal of restoring its availability on iPhones. By Tuesday, Epic followed up with Apple via email to check the status, and as of Wednesday morning, there had still been no reply. Sweeney took to social media to say, “No news from Apple yet. They’ve had it since last Friday.”
Under normal circumstances, Apple claims that the majority of App Store submissions—around 90%—are reviewed within a 24-hour period. Developers typically receive an update or decision through their developer account dashboard. The fact that Epic had to initiate a follow-up communication implies that Apple has either delayed or withheld the standard feedback it provides during the review process.
While Apple hasn’t publicly commented on the delay, there’s widespread speculation that the company is approaching Epic’s submission with caution due to the controversial history between them. At the heart of their conflict is Epic’s long-standing opposition to Apple’s commission structure, which takes up to 30% from transactions made through apps distributed on its platform. This includes all in-app purchases, and for years, Fortnite had been a major revenue generator—until Epic introduced its own payment system within the app to bypass Apple’s fees.
That move prompted Apple to remove Fortnite from the App Store in 2020 and triggered a years-long legal fight. Although the case didn’t fully swing in Epic’s favor, a recent court ruling forced Apple to permit developers to link to outside payment methods. It’s a decision with potentially major financial consequences for Apple, which reportedly earned over $10 billion in App Store commissions in 2024 alone.
Following that partial legal win, Epic announced it would bring Fortnite back to the App Store, complying with the revised policies. However, Apple has filed an appeal against the decision, and the Ninth Circuit Court has until May 28 to decide whether to allow Apple to pause the required changes. In the meantime, Epic is pushing forward with its plan to reintroduce Fortnite, and the delay in Apple’s response is drawing renewed attention to the strained relationship between the companies.
Interestingly, Epic isn’t submitting Fortnite through a U.S. developer account. Instead, it’s using a European account registered in Sweden—originally created to facilitate Fortnite’s reentry into the European App Store, which now has looser rules due to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. That may also be contributing to the delay, as Apple may be scrutinizing international submissions more closely, especially those involving high-profile developers and apps that historically challenged its policies.
Epic is not alone in its efforts to leverage external payments. Other major apps, including Amazon’s Kindle app, Patreon, and Spotify, have already taken advantage of the court ruling by allowing users to pay through third-party systems. These changes are ushering in a new phase of app monetization that could reshape the financial dynamics of the App Store—something Apple is clearly not taking lightly.
For now, Fortnite’s return remains in limbo, and Epic is still waiting for the green light. Whether Apple is simply being cautious or strategically stalling remains unclear, but with a May 28 court deadline looming, a resolution one way or another may not be far off.
Want to Splurge? Apple Maps Adds Info on Nearby Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Apple Maps is getting a luxurious upgrade aimed at foodies, travelers, and golf enthusiasts alike. With a fresh update rolling out across the United States, users will now be able to discover and explore highly rated destinations—from prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants to acclaimed hotels and golf courses—all within the app.
The headline feature of this update is Apple’s collaboration with the globally renowned Michelin Guide. Through this partnership, Apple Maps now highlights restaurants that have earned coveted Michelin stars, including the revered Green Star for sustainability-focused dining and Bib Gourmand honors for top-tier meals that don’t break the bank. Each featured restaurant includes editorial content curated by Michelin, giving users insight into what makes these places special. You’ll be able to view detailed write-ups, ratings, and, eventually, even make reservations directly through the app.
Beyond the fine dining experience, the app also features a new list of over 300 hotels endorsed by Michelin. These high-end accommodations can now be browsed and booked without ever leaving Apple Maps, making travel planning more seamless. Whether you’re arranging a culinary weekend or booking a premium stay, the app is evolving into more than just a navigation tool—it’s becoming a lifestyle assistant.
And it doesn’t stop there. Apple is also bringing in content from additional expert sources. In the coming updates, recommendations from The Infatuation will join the mix, offering even more dining suggestions with a fresh, urban vibe. For those who prefer their luxury on the green, curated content from Golf Digest will spotlight noteworthy golf courses around the country. These additions are part of Apple’s broader strategy to enrich the Maps experience with trusted editorial voices that can guide user decisions in more personalized and meaningful ways.
Currently, these new features and recommendations are tailored for users in the U.S., but Apple has made it clear that global expansion is on the roadmap. Given that the Michelin Guide already operates in over 30 countries, there’s a strong likelihood that international cities will be included in the near future, giving globetrotters access to top-rated experiences wherever they travel.
If you typically rely on Google Maps, however, you won’t find these new integrations there. While an unofficial Michelin locator existed for Google Maps at one point, its current accuracy is uncertain. For those on Android or outside of Apple’s ecosystem, downloading the official Michelin Guide app remains the best alternative.
For Apple users, though, the Maps app is quickly becoming a go-to platform not just for finding your way—but for discovering where to stay, where to eat, and even where to play. Whether you’re planning your next upscale meal, hunting for a sustainable culinary gem, or seeking out a luxurious place to rest your head, Apple Maps is making it easier than ever to splurge with confidence.
