Epic Games’ multi-year legal fight against Apple’s App Store policies has come at a staggering cost. CEO Tim Sweeney recently confirmed that the company has lost more than $1 billion due to the dispute, including over $100 million in legal fees and hundreds of millions in lost revenue from iOS.
The conflict began in 2020 when Epic bypassed Apple’s 30% commission by adding a direct payment system in Fortnite for iOS. Apple swiftly removed the game from the App Store, sparking a lawsuit that would grow into one of the tech world’s most closely watched legal battles.
Legal Fees and Missed Opportunities
According to Sweeney, Epic made about $300 million from Fortnite on iOS in just two years. With the game pulled and millions of users unable to access it on Apple devices, Epic lost a major source of income. He estimates the full financial toll of the legal fight could exceed $1 billion.
The court case also exposed internal tensions. Apple faced accusations of misleading the court, while a judge recently ruled the company violated a prior injunction related to payment options. These decisions may pave the way for Fortnite’s return to the App Store soon—possibly through Epic Games Sweden, a subsidiary with an active Apple developer account.
Looking Forward: A Chance at Return
Despite the financial damage, Sweeney remains hopeful. Talks with Apple have been “cordial,” and he expects Fortnite to return to iOS in the U.S. soon. He argues that recent court victories give developers more freedom to share alternative payment options and reduce Apple’s tight control.
Sweeney believes these changes will push Apple to offer developers better deals, possibly lowering its 30% commission. He also says the fight was about more than money—it was about freedom for developers and users alike.
As the dust settles, Epic hopes the massive loss will lead to long-term gains—for the company and the broader app ecosystem.
