New Reports from Sensor Tower, 9to5Mac and Bloomberg Unveil the Top-Performing App Store Game of the Year - Fortnite!

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Are you an avid Fortnite player tired of the ongoing dispute between Epic Games and Apple's App Store? Heard about Sensor Tower's bombshell report on the game's revenue loss? Wondering how this all ties into the recent court battle? Look no further - we've got all the details you need to know.

First off, let's start with the basics. Fortnite, a popular multiplayer video game, has been at the center of controversy with Apple over its in-app payment system. In August 2020, Epic Games implemented their own payment system, bypassing the 30% commission fees charged by Apple.

This move led to the removal of Fortnite from the App Store and a legal battle between the two companies. But the latest development is even more shocking - according to Sensor Tower, Fortnite has lost a whopping $1.2 billion in revenue since its App Store removal.

Yes, you read that right - $1.2 billion. That's a significant loss for a game that was once a top-grossing app on the App Store. The loss includes both direct revenue from iOS users and potential revenue from new players who may have downloaded the game if it were available on the App Store.

So, what does this mean for Epic Games and Apple's ongoing court battle? Well, it certainly adds some weight to Epic Games' argument that the App Store's commission fees are unfair and monopolistic. It also highlights the significant impact that App Store removal can have on a developer's revenue.

But let's take a closer look at the numbers. Sensor Tower's report states that Fortnite's revenue from iOS in-app purchases dropped from $43.4 million in October 2020 to just $3 million in April 2021. That's a staggering 93% decrease in revenue.

Furthermore, the report suggests that the loss of revenue is not just due to the App Store removal, but also because Fortnite's popularity has waned over time. The game's revenue peaked at $126 million in August 2020, just before the payment system controversy.

However, it's important to note that even with a decline in popularity, Fortnite still remains a significant source of revenue for Epic Games. The game made an estimated $700 million in revenue outside of the App Store in 2020 alone.

But what's next for the game and its future on the App Store? Well, we'll have to wait and see how the court battle unfolds. In the meantime, Epic Games has launched a public relations campaign against Apple, and Fortnite fans continue to protest the App Store's policies.

So, whether you're a die-hard Fortnite player or just interested in the ongoing dispute between Epic Games and Apple, this news certainly raises some important questions about the future of app store policies and developer revenue.

In conclusion, Sensor Tower's report highlights the significant impact that App Store removal can have on a developer's revenue, as well as the controversy surrounding commission fees and monopolistic practices. If you want to stay up to date on the latest news and developments, keep following along with our articles.


The Battle Between Fortnite and Apple

The popular video game Fortnite has been at the center of a dispute with tech giant Apple over the past few weeks. The controversy erupted when Fortnite's developer, Epic Games, included a direct payment option for in-game purchases, bypassing Apple's App Store commission fee of 30%. Apple retaliated by removing Fortnite from the App Store, prompting Epic Games to file a lawsuit against the tech giant.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

According to Sensor Tower, a data analytics firm, Fortnite's removal from the App Store would result in a significant loss of revenue for Epic Games. Fortnite generated $1.2 billion in revenue through the App Store since it was first launched on iOS in 2018. Furthermore, Fortnite accounted for a total of 250 million downloads on iOS devices alone.

Apple is known for taking a strict stance on the App Store guidelines, which require developers to use in-app purchases for digital content. In exchange, Apple takes a 30% cut of the revenue generated from those purchases. While this may seem like a fair tradeoff for the use of the App Store platform, some developers have voiced their concerns over the commission fee being too high.

A Daring Move by Epic Games

Epic Games' decision to include a direct payment option for in-game purchases was seen as a direct challenge to Apple's App Store guidelines. The move was not only a bid to save money on commission fees but also to exercise more control over their revenue streams.

Fortnite's removal from the App Store was swift, and it prompted a response from Epic Games that was equally as swift. Epic Games first released a parody video on social media, mocking Apple's famous 1984 commercial. In the video, Fortnite characters were shown to be freeing themselves from the oppression of the App Store.

The Legal Battle Begins

Shortly after the removal of Fortnite from the App Store, Epic Games filed a lawsuit against Apple. The lawsuit alleges that Apple's App Store commission fee is monopolistic and anti-competitive. This has prompted a lot of discussion about the App Store guidelines and whether or not they are fair for developers.

Apple defended their position by stating that Epic Games knew full well the App Store guidelines and voluntarily agreed to them when they first launched Fortnite on iOS. Furthermore, Apple states that Epic Games violated the guidelines by including a direct payment option for in-game purchases.

The Future of the App Store

The legal battle between Epic Games and Apple is still ongoing. However, the implications of this dispute extend far beyond these two companies. The outcome of the lawsuit could potentially change the way the entire tech industry operates.

If Epic Games wins the lawsuit, this could mean a shift in power away from large tech companies like Apple and towards independent developers. It could also result in lower commission fees for developers who generate revenue through the App Store.

On the other hand, if Apple wins the lawsuit, it would be seen as a victory for companies that have an established presence in the tech industry and a blow to smaller developers who may have less leverage over the App Store guidelines.

Conclusion

The legal battle between Epic Games and Apple is just beginning. However, this dispute has brought up important questions about the power dynamics within the tech industry and the fairness of App Store guidelines. Regardless of the outcome of the lawsuit, this controversy is sure to have far-reaching consequences for the future of the tech industry and app developers alike.


Comparison between App Store, Fortnite, Sensor Tower, 354mgurmanbloomberg

Introduction

The world of gaming is vast and growing with each passing day. In the last few years, gaming on mobile devices has become increasingly popular. The biggest player in this space is Apple's App Store. However, in recent times, there have been a few issues that have cropped up concerning App Store policies. One of the most significant debates centers on Fortnite not being available on the App Store. In this article, we'll be comparing the App Store, Fortnite, Sensor Tower, and 354mgurmanbloomberg.

The App Store

The App Store is a digital distribution platform, developed by Apple Inc. It was launched in 2008, and since then, it has grown to become the go-to shop for all iOS app downloads. In 2019, the App Store earned $54.2 billion in revenue, making it one of Apple's most significant money-making ventures.

Policies

One of the most contentious issues surrounding the App Store is its policies. Apple has strict guidelines that all app developers must adhere to for their apps to be listed on the platform. One of these policies includes charging a commission on in-app purchases made within an app listed on the App Store. This commission can range from 15% to 30%, depending on the developer's earnings.

The Fortnite Saga

Fortnite is one of the most popular games globally, and when it was removed from the App Store, it created quite a stir. The removal was due to Epic Games, Fortnite's developer, breaching App Store policies by allowing players to bypass the platform's in-app payment system. Epic Games went on to file a lawsuit against Apple citing antitrust violations.

Sensor Tower

Sensor Tower is a mobile app analytics and market intelligence company with expertise in the App Store, Google Play, and Amazon. The company provides data on everything from app store optimization to download trends.

App Intelligence

One of Sensor Tower's primary products is App Intelligence, which provides critical insights into apps' performance across various categories. This information can be beneficial for app developers since they can gain insights into their competition and make better-informed decisions.

354mgurmanbloomberg

354mgurmanbloomberg is the Twitter handle for Mark Gurman, one of Bloomberg's most prominent technology reporters. He covers everything from Apple to Microsoft and has an enormous following on Twitter.

News and Leaks

Gurman is known for his insider information, particularly when it comes to Apple. His frequent tweets about upcoming product releases and changes in policies have made him a reliable source of tech news.

Comparison Table

Area App Store Fortnite Sensor Tower 354mgurmanbloomberg
Function App Distribution Gaming App Mobile Analytics Tech News and Leaks
Revenue in 2019 $54.2 billion N/A N/A N/A
Policies Strict guidelines on app distribution Breached policies by allowing players to bypass in-app payment system Provides data on performance of apps across various categories Provides tech news and leaks, particularly on Apple products and policies

Opinion

The debate around Apple's App Store policies is one that is likely to rumble on. While it is understandable that Apple wants to protect its revenue streams, the commissions charged on in-app purchases seem excessive. The saga surrounding Fortnite's removal from the App Store highlights the need for the platform to be more transparent about its policies and more open to negotiation around commission rates. Both Sensor Tower and 354mgurmanbloomberg are valuable resources for app developers and tech enthusiasts. Sensor Tower provides vital data, while 354mgurmanbloomberg offers relevant up-to-date information on tech companies like Apple. Overall, the tech industry must keep up-to-date with the latest changes in policies and stay informed on possible antitrust violations.

Everything You Need to Know About the App Store Fortnite Saga

The battle between Epic Games and Apple has been making headlines ever since Fortnite was removed from the App Store. The controversy began when Epic attempted to circumvent Apple's in-app purchase system, leading to an immediate removal of the game from the App Store. Here is everything you need to know about this ongoing saga.

The Initial Removal of Fortnite

On August 13th, 2020, Epic Games announced a new payment system for iOS and Android users. This system was designed to allow players to purchase V-Bucks, virtual currency used in Fortnite, directly from Epic Games rather than going through the Apple or Google app stores. This move would effectively bypass the 30% fee that both Apple and Google take for any purchases made through their app stores.

Almost immediately, both Apple and Google removed Fortnite from their respective app stores. In response, Epic Games filed lawsuits against both companies, claiming they were monopolizing the app store and charging exorbitant fees for in-app purchases.

The Legal Battle Begins

Since then, both Apple and Google have faced increased scrutiny over their app store policies. In response to the lawsuits, the companies defended their policies, arguing that they would harm the user experience and lead to a less secure environment for developers and consumers alike.

In November of 2020, Epic Games brought its case against Apple to court. The trial soon became a David vs Goliath battle, with Epic Games rallying other developers to speak out against the App Store's policies.

The Key Issues in the Battle

One of the key issues in the legal battle is the App Store's walled garden policy. This refers to the fact that Apple's app store is the only way that iOS users can download software onto their devices. Apple argues that this policy ensures user safety and security, while Epic Games and other developers argue that it gives Apple too much power over the market.

Another issue is the 30% commission that Apple takes on all purchases made through their app store. Epic Games and other developers argue that this fee is excessive and monopolistic, while Apple claims that it is standard in the tech industry and necessary for maintaining the app store as a secure and reliable platform.

The Verdict and Fallout

In May of 2021, the trial ended with a verdict in favor of Apple. The judge ruled that Apple's app store policies did not constitute a monopolistic practice, and that the 30% commission was within industry standards.

Epic Games has since appealed the ruling, and the case is expected to continue for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, Fortnite remains unavailable on the App Store, and the controversy has sparked discussions around the world about the role of large tech companies in the marketplace.

Conclusion

The App Store Fortnite saga has highlighted the tension between developers and app store providers. Apple's strict policies may protect users, but they also limit the ability of developers to reach their audiences in the way they see fit. Epic Games is not alone in its concerns, as several other developers have voiced their support for the company throughout the legal battle.

As the case continues, it remains unclear what the long-term impact will be on both Epic Games and Apple. However, one thing is certain: the outcome of this legal battle will shape the app store landscape for years to come.


What the App Store Controversy Tells Us About Fortnite, Sensor Tower, and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman

The gaming world was rocked when Apple and Google removed Fortnite from their respective app stores back in August 2020. This move was made in response to an update to the game that allowed players to buy in-game currency directly from Epic Games, bypassing the usual app store payment system. It sparked a legal battle between Epic Games and Apple, with several other high-profile supporters coming to Epic's defense, including Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. The whole fiasco highlights several issues related to app store monopolies, third-party services like Sensor Tower, and the future of mobile gaming.

At the center of the Fortnite controversy is the issue of app store monopolies. Apple and Google control the vast majority of the mobile app market, and they have strict rules governing what can and cannot be sold on their platforms. Some developers argue that these rules are overly restrictive and create an unfair playing field. They say that Apple and Google have too much power over the mobile app market, and that they use that power to charge high fees and stifle competition.

One of the companies that benefits from the power of the app stores is Sensor Tower. This third-party service provides developers with valuable data about the performance of their apps, such as download stats and revenue estimates. But some developers are concerned about the amount of data that Sensor Tower collects, and worry that it could be used against them by the app stores themselves. There are also questions about the accuracy of Sensor Tower's data, as it is based on estimates rather than actual sales figures.

Mark Gurman has been following the Fortnite saga closely, and he has been a vocal supporter of Epic Games' position. In his reporting for Bloomberg, he has highlighted the problems with the app store model, and called out Apple and Google for their behavior. He has also criticized Sensor Tower, saying that its data should be taken with a grain of salt. Gurman's reporting has helped raise awareness about the issues facing mobile app developers, and has given a voice to those who feel that the app stores are too powerful.

But not everyone agrees with Gurman's perspective. Some critics argue that Epic Games is simply trying to evade the payment systems put in place by Apple and Google, and that it is motivated by profit rather than a desire to create a more open and fair mobile app marketplace. They also point out that Sensor Tower is just one of many companies that provide app analytics, and that it is not inherently evil or monopolistic.

So where does this all leave us? It is clear that the Fortnite controversy has opened up a wider debate about the power of the app stores, the role of third-party services like Sensor Tower, and the future of mobile gaming. There are no easy answers to these questions, but it is important that they are asked and discussed. Ultimately, we need to find a way to create a mobile app ecosystem that is fair and equitable for all, and that encourages innovation and creativity.

If you want to stay up to date on the latest developments in the Fortnite saga, as well as other news related to the app store industry, be sure to follow Mark Gurman's reporting on Bloomberg. And if you are a mobile app developer yourself, consider using multiple analytics providers to get a more accurate picture of your app's performance. By staying informed and engaged, we can help shape the future of mobile gaming and ensure that it is a thriving and diverse industry for years to come.

Thank you for reading!


People Also Ask About App Store Fortnite Sensor Tower 354mgurmanbloomberg: Answers

What is the App Store?

The App Store is an online marketplace where users can download applications (apps) for their Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. The store is managed by Apple Inc. and offers both free and paid apps.

What is Fortnite?

Fortnite is a popular multiplayer video game developed by Epic Games. It is set in a post-apocalyptic world where players have to collect resources, build structures, and fight off other players to be the last one standing. Fortnite is available on multiple platforms, including mobile devices like iPhones and iPads.

What is Sensor Tower?

Sensor Tower is a company that provides data and insights into the mobile app market. It offers App Store Optimization (ASO) tools, app download estimates, and other analytics to help developers and publishers improve their app performance and visibility in the app stores.

What did Gurman report about Fortnite on the App Store?

Mark Gurman is a technology journalist for Bloomberg News. In his article published on August 13, 2020, he reported that Apple had removed Fortnite from the App Store due to a violation of its guidelines. Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, had introduced a direct payment system into the app, circumventing Apple's 30% commission on all in-app purchases. This led to a legal dispute between Epic and Apple.

Why do people still search for Fortnite on the App Store?

Despite Fortnite being removed from the App Store, people may still search for it out of habit or because they are unaware of the situation. Some users may also be looking for information on the legal dispute between Epic and Apple, or ways to obtain Fortnite on their devices through alternative means.

What is the significance of the 354mgurmanbloomberg code?

The code 354mgurmanbloomberg refers to a tweet posted by Gurman on August 14, 2020, in which he shared a screenshot of an email from Epic Games to Apple's App Review Board. The email included the code as a reference to the ongoing legal battle between the two companies over the removal of Fortnite from the App Store. The code has since become a symbol of support for Epic Games and criticism of Apple's app store policies.