Epic Games announced on October 22, 2026, that it planned to bring Fortnite back to the Australian App Store on October 23. The Federal Court of Australia’s order sets a separate written-application process for Fortnite, while broader iOS distribution and payment rules have their own scheduled start date.
Epic’s announcement set a planned return date
Epic’s October 22 post said Fortnite would return to the Australian App Store the following day. For background on the court ruling, see NeoTeo’s earlier coverage of Australia’s order against Apple.
Order 2 requires a written application
Under Order 2, Apple must take the necessary steps to admit or readmit Fortnite and other eligible Epic iOS apps after the Epic applicants submit a written application. Apple must process compliant developer documents and app updates under its usual business practices. The apps remain subject to developer-program agreements and App Store Review Guidelines consistent with the court’s orders. The provision covers apps, not an alternative app store.
Broader iOS changes have a separate schedule
Orders 3–11, covering alternative app distribution and payments in Australia, are scheduled to start at noon Melbourne time on March 1, 2027. They provide for direct downloads, alternative app stores and payment options, with automated scans for genuine security or privacy reasons and notarisation by Apple or a suitably qualified third party.
Apple may apply between February 1 and February 15, 2027, with supporting evidence, to move the start date to noon Melbourne time on May 3. That extension would take effect only if the Court grants the application.
