Epic Games Slams Google and Apple Over Store Installation Practices
Epic Games has spoken out against both Google and Apple for their practices regarding the installation of the Epic Games Store on Android and iOS devices. The company has criticized the number of steps required and the use of misleading messages, violating the Digital Markets Act.
Epic Games has outlined the issues with both platforms. On Android, Google requires 12 steps to install the Epic Games Store, which Epic Games argues violates the Digital Markets Act. Previously, installing the store on iOS involved 15 steps, but Apple has reduced this to six under EU pressure, leading to a significant drop in the 'drop-off' rate during installation, from 65% to 25%.
Epic Games has praised Apple for removing 'Scare-Screens' and other misleading messages during installation. However, it continues to criticize Apple for 'garbage fees' like the Core Technology Fee, which it argues is a violation of the Digital Markets Act. Google, meanwhile, has been criticized for using a false warning screen claiming that software from serious competitors could be 'dangerous'.
Epic Games has reached 29 million installations of the Epic Games Store on iOS by the end of 2024, approaching the installation rate of Windows and Mac. CEO Tim Sweeney initially aimed for 100 million installations on iOS. Despite the challenges, Epic Games continues to advocate for fair practices in the digital market.
