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Fortnite returns to Google Play worldwide on March 19
After years of legal battles, Fortnite is officially returning to the Google Play Store worldwide starting March 19. The move follows a US Supreme Court ruling that sided with Epic Games and forced Google to change its a
Image: androidpolice.com
After years of legal battles, Fortnite is officially returning to the Google Play Store worldwide starting March 19. The move follows a US Supreme Court ruling that sided with Epic Games and forced Google to change its app store policies. Fortnite’s return coincides with the launch of its Chapter 7, Season 2 update.
The saga began in 2020 when Google removed Fortnite from its Play Store because Epic Games challenged the store’s 30% commission fee by offering in-app purchases directly. This sparked a protracted legal fight, culminating in a Supreme Court decision that favored Epic and required Google to allow alternative payment options and reconsider some of its policies.
Until now, Android users had to sideload Fortnite by downloading APKs directly from Epic’s own store-a cumbersome and risky process, especially during major game updates or storefront events. The global Play Store release finally removes that friction, letting players download and update Fortnite as easily as any other app available on Google Play.
Epic’s battle also pushed Google to revamp its developer fee structure. Starting this June, Google will roll out new commission rates worldwide, including key markets like the US and UK, reducing fees for many developers. This change could reshape the broader app ecosystem beyond just Fortnite.
While Fortnite’s mobile absence wasn’t a huge deal for console players, Android users have long awaited its return. This relaunch signals a fresh chapter for mobile gaming, demonstrating how app store disputes can influence the availability and economics of popular titles.
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Computing Editor
Tomas lives in the terminal. He covers chips, laptops, and operating systems with a focus on performance and efficiency. He reads kernel changelogs the way other people read fiction, and he's always on the hunt for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch. If it processes data, Tomas has an opinion on it.
