Battle Royale
It is time for battle royale. Fortnite is one of the biggest names in video games, and their creator is taking on Apple and Google in a feud that could change smartphone app stores.
The conflict started when both Apple and Google removed Fortnite from their app stores for violating guidelines. Both tech giants claimed that Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, was creating a way for players to buy in-game currency outside of their proprietary payment systems.Â
Epic responded by filing suits against both companies and launching a PR campaign aimed at characterizing Apple and Google as the Villians in the battle.Â
Developers have been claiming for a long time that the 30% cut of revenue that Apple and Google take from each app sale is too large. Earlier this year, a complaint by Spotify led to the European Commision opening two antitrust lawsuits against Apple’s App Store.Â
Facebook has also joined the fight against Apple. The social network accused Apple of hurting small businesses and unveiled a number of features that might allow users to circumvent Apple’s 30% fee.Â
While Apple has faced previous challenges to its 30% fee, none have come from a company the size of Facebook. It will be interesting to see how this battle between many tech giants shapes the future of app sales.
I am not a financial advisor and my comments should never be taken as financial advice. Investments come with risk, so always do your research and analysis beforehand.