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Apple reverses course, allows Epic Games to launch Fortnite app in EU
Barron’s deputy editor Alex Eule and ‘Barron’s Roundtable’ panelists discuss growing concerns over gateways to online gambling and the week’s stock picks.
Apple reversed its decision to block Fortnite video game developer Epic Games from launching its own online marketplace for iPhones and iPads in Europe on Friday and has now cleared the way.
Last Wednesday, Apple escalated a longstanding feud with Epic Games by blocking the game maker from launching its own online marketplace.
The two companies have been involved in a legal battle since 2020, when Epic accused Apple of violating U.S. antitrust rules by charging up to 30% commissions on in-app payments on its iPhone Operating System (iOS) devices.
Apple’s decision to allow Epic to proceed with its plans follows the European Union’s deadline last Thursday, requiring big tech companies to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which is a set of rules banning Apple and Google from controlling which apps can be distributed on devices with iOS or Android operating systems.
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Epic Games logo of a video game and software developer is seen on a smartphone screen. (Photo Illustration by Pavlo Gonchar/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Regulators reportedly warned Apple about its decision to block Epic’s potential return, EU industry chief Thierry Breton said.
“I take note with satisfaction that following our contacts, Apple decided to backtrack its decision on Epic exclusion,” Breton posted on X. “From Day 2, #DMA is already showing very concrete results.”
Epic ultimately lost its court battle on U.S. antitrust rules violations, and the game maker’s plan to break Apple’s rules in protest got the popular Fortnite game banned from Apple devices. And while Friday’s decision is a victory for Epic, it still falls short of everything it would like from Apple.
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The Apple logo is seen on the outside of Bill Graham Civic Auditorium before the start of an event in San Francisco, California on September 7, 2016. (JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Still, Epic has been anything but silent about Apple’s recent decisions on the matter.
On March 6, Epic posted on X that Apple terminated its developer account, adding the company can no longer develop the Epic Games Store for iOS.
“This is a serious violation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act,” Epic posted. “We will continue to fight to get back on iOS!”
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In this photo illustration the online video game by Epic Games company Fortnite logo seen displayed on a smartphone with an economic stock exchange index graph in the background. (Photo Illustration by Budrul Chukrut/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Apple terminated a new developer account that Epic had created in Sweden. Epic had created the account in an effort to put Fortnite and other games back on iPhones in Europe by running its own game store on Apple’s devices. Apple must allow third-party stores on its devices, under the new European law.
The developer accounts are important because software creators cannot distribute apps to iPhones and iPads without one. Apple had previously terminated some of Epic’s developer accounts in 2020, after Epic purposely broke Apple’s in-app payment rules, using its violation of the rules and subsequent banishment from the App Store as the core of public relations and legal campaign against Apple.
Two days after terminating the developer account, Apple had reversed its decision and Epic changed its tone.
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“Apple has told us and committed to the European Commission that they will reinstate our developer account,” Epic said on X. “We are moving forward as planned to launch the Epic Games Store and bring Fortnite back to iOS in Europe.”
Although the Epic Games Store will be permitted to launch in Europe, it remains unavailable in the App Store in the U.S.
Epic said it will move on with its plans to bring the Epic Games Store and Fortnite back to iOS in the continent.
“This sends a strong signal to developers that the European Commission will act swiftly to enforce the Digital Markets Act and hold gatekeepers accountable,” Epic Games added.
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“Following conversations with Epic, they have committed to follow the rules, including our DMA policies,” Apple told Fox News Digital. “As a result, Epic Sweden AB has been permitted to re-sign the developer agreement and accepted into the Apple Developer Program.”
Reuters contributed to this report.
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As we look ahead to 2024, many homeowners and prospective buyers are wondering what to expect when it comes to mortgage rates. The landscape of the housing market is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay informed about trends and predictions. In this blog post, we will discuss some factors that could impact mortgage rates in 2024 and what homeowners and buyers can expect.
One factor that could impact mortgage rates in 2024 is the overall state of the economy. If the economy is strong and growing, we may see higher mortgage rates as the Federal Reserve looks to combat inflation. On the other hand, if the economy is stagnant or in a recession, we may see lower mortgage rates as the Fed looks to stimulate growth. It’s important to keep an eye on economic indicators such as GDP growth, unemployment rates, and inflation to get a sense of where mortgage rates may be heading.
Another factor that could impact mortgage rates in 2024 is Federal Reserve policy. The Fed plays a key role in setting interest rates, and their decisions can have a ripple effect on mortgage rates. If the Fed decides to raise interest rates in response to inflation, we may see an increase in mortgage rates. Conversely, if the Fed decides to lower interest rates to stimulate growth, we may see a decrease in mortgage rates. Keeping up with the latest news and announcements from the Fed can give homeowners and buyers a sense of where mortgage rates may be heading.
In terms of specific cities and local mortgage companies, it’s important to note that mortgage rates can vary depending on location and lender. For example, in a city like New York City, where real estate prices are high, mortgage rates may be higher compared to a city like Indianapolis, where real estate prices are lower. Additionally, local mortgage companies may offer competitive rates and terms compared to national lenders. For example, in New York City, local lenders like Quontic Bank and CrossCountry Mortgage may offer specialized products and services tailored to the needs of local buyers.
It’s important for homeowners and buyers to shop around and compare rates from multiple lenders to ensure they are getting the best deal. Websites like Bankrate and LendingTree can be helpful resources for comparing rates and terms from multiple lenders. Homeowners and buyers should also consider working with a mortgage broker who can help them navigate the lending process and find the best mortgage product for their needs.
In conclusion, predicting mortgage rates in 2024 is not an exact science, but there are several factors that could impact rates. By staying informed about economic indicators, Federal Reserve policy, and local market trends, homeowners and buyers can make informed decisions about their mortgage. Shopping around and comparing rates from multiple lenders is key to ensuring you are getting the best deal on your mortgage. Whether you’re looking to refinance your existing mortgage or buy a new home, it’s important to stay informed and be proactive in managing your mortgage.
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