Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, has voiced strong opposition to Apple’s recent alterations to its App Store policies in the European Union. He believes that these changes have fostered an environment not conducive to fair competition. What’s more, they violate the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Europe’s law to make digital markets fairer. Sweeney’s comments come amid ongoing tensions between Epic Games and Apple, particularly following the temporary ban of Epic’s developer account.
Sweeney goes on to say that Apple’s adherence to the DMA is “brazenly illegal.” He thinks the tech giant’s changes reflect a “malicious compliance scheme.” He believes that they are just simply not serious about creating an equitable playing field for developers. As the CEO of a company that has long been at odds with Apple, he is not convinced that these changes will benefit developers as intended.
Suggestions for Fairness
In his critique, Sweeney offered a number of concrete recommendations to Apple that would better promote fairness and help the company fall in line with the DMA. The App Store should fuel the “best experiences,” he continued, for developers and their postings. Second, he called on Apple to provide greater access to “free to use” alternative payment systems in addition to the current infrastructure.
Sweeney went on to advocate for allowing the use of third-party payment options as well. He argues that unbundling Apple’s payment system and making it easier to use alternatives will lead to a more level playing field for developers. This amendment would restore flexibility to them to better tailor their transactions.
“This is a mockery of fair competition in digital markets.” – Tim Sweeney’s post
The Return of Fortnite
The DMA provides an important back door escape hatch for Epic Games. It might even mean the re-release of “Fortnite” on iOS devices! The platform had temporarily banned the game from the platform last year amid an epic Apple App Store policy lawsuit. This ongoing disagreement led to Epic’s main developer account being banned. Apple’s first response was to ban Epic, alleging a “material breach of contract.” Soon after, Twitter restored the account, allowing Epic to continue with its plan to re-launch “Fortnite” on iOS.
Roku’s chief government affairs officer, Matthew Sweeney, said he was encouraged by the DMA’s potential impact on his company. He believes that this is a big opportunity to finally return “Fortnite” to Apple’s platform. This change has the potential to greatly expand its audience. This hope is dimmed by the fact that he has continuously attacked Apple’s existing practices.
Ongoing Tensions
Even with Epic’s developer account reinstated, tensions between Apple and Epic Games are still running high. Despite his defeat in this initial battle, Sweeney has continued to speak out against what he sees as Apple’s egregious behavior. His recent testimony represents his clear and deep conviction that Apple’s recent efforts are not only insincere. He contends they are just window dressing as opposed to a true attempt to comply with regulatory requirements.
Sweeney’s comments further inflame this heated battle over digital competition. Additionally, they shine a light on the role of big tech in ensuring a level playing field in the marketplace. Conversations and advocacy on these issues have been moving quickly. Both developers and consumers are eager to see how this new conflict plays out, and what it means for the future of digital commerce.
