Epic Games is demanding to allow sideloading on iPhones without paying Apple any commission, igniting a fresh legal battle. Apple accuses Epic of seeking a 'free ride' and warns of security risks if sideloading is permitted without fees.
Epic is pushing to get sideloading on iPhones without paying Apple a cent. Apple is firing back hard, accusing the games company of demanding a"free ride" on its platform.This fight between Apple and Epic Games feels like it’s been going on forever, doesn't it? If you need a quick recap: Epic tried to bypass Apple 's 30% App Store commission, got Fortnite promptly booted.
In the US, a judge eventually told Apple they had to allow developers to use other payment systems. Apple’s response was... well, a bit shady. They basically said,"Fine, but we'll still charge you a commission anyway." The judge was not happy, called them out for flouting the ruling, and even referred the matter for a criminal probe. Yikes., including Australia. The court down under has already indicated it's likely to rule that Apple must permit sideloading—letting users install apps from outside the official App Store. But the details are still being hammered out. This is where it gets spicy. Epic is now asking the judge to order that this new sideloading be allowed without any commission paid to Apple. Apple's lawyers are firing back, saying this is Epic asking to"free ride on Apple's platform and dismantle every safeguard." They’re sticking to their old-faithful argument: sideloading equals scams, privacy threats, and malware. Epic is now asking to free ride on Apple’s platform and dismantle every safeguard we’ve put in place to protect users and developers — a request that goes well beyond the Court’s ruling. We will continue to seek an outcome that respects our intellectual property and protects the safe, secure experience consumers and developers expect from our platform.Fortnite is currently listed on the App Store. | Image credit — PhoneArena This whole thing is really the ultimate battle over Apple’s famous"walled garden." For years, Apple's big selling point has been that the iPhone is safe and secure because they control every single thing. You can only get apps from their store, which they vet for malware and other funny business.On the other side of the fence, you have the Android ecosystem. Google has always allowed sideloading. It’s a core part of that platform's openness. Sure, it comes with real risks—you can absolutely download something nasty if you're not careful—but it also gives users freedom and choice. Apple is essentially terrified of becoming Android, both from a security standpoint and, let's be honest, from a"losing our 30% cut" standpoint. So who's right? If you're someone who just wants your phone to work and be safe, Apple's locked-down approach is comforting. If you're a power user or a developer, you're probably siding with Epic, screaming for the freedom to install what you want on the $1000+ device you paid for. Honestly, this situation is getting a bit ridiculous. While Epic is definitely pushing its luck asking for zero commission—hosting, development tools, and platform access aren't free—Apple’s"we're just protecting you" argument feels weaker every single day. The US judge basically caught them misleading the court just to protect their revenue stream. It's not a good look. I'm a big believer in user choice. It’s my phone. If I want to take the risk and install an app from a developer's website, I should be able to. Apple can plaster that entire process with terrifying warnings. Make me click"I understand I might be compromising my device" five times. But ultimately, the choice should be mine. Apple's"security" argument just feels too much like a convenient excuse to protect its massive profits.is a stunningly illustrated book we’ve been crafting for over a year—and it’s set to launch in just a couple of months!is the ultimate coffee table book for any phone enthusiast. Featuring the stories of more than 20 beloved devices, it takes you on a nostalgic journey through the mobile revolution that transformed our world. Don’t miss out—sign up today to lock in your early-bird discount!Data-only plans & global coverage - enter code IPHONE25 or sign up to receive the discount automatically Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.Phonearena comments rules A discussion is a place, where people can voice their opinion, no matter if it is positive, neutral or negative. However, when posting, one must stay true to the topic, and not just share some random thoughts, which are not directly related to the matter.Multiple accounts - one person can have only one accountTo help keep our community safe and free from spam, we apply temporary limits to newly created accounts: New accounts created within the last 24 hours may experience restrictions on how frequently they can post or comment.Moderation is done by humans. We try to be as objective as possible and moderate with zero bias. If you think a post should be moderated - please, report it.Galaxy S26 series is coming in three months: 9 changes to expectThe redesigned camera island of the Galaxy S26 Ultra shows up in a new leakPixel 10 Pro Fold battery explodes in a failed durability test
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