Epic tipped to submit Fortnite to Play Store: Will Google make an exception? ~ I World Find

Epic tipped to submit Fortnite to Play Store: Will Google make an exception?

Published on December 09, 2019 Category: Android, application, Information, news, Technically, technology

Sponsorship Offer

Mega-popular video game Fortnite came to Android last year, but it didn’t land on the Google Play Store. Instead, the multiplayer shooter had to be side-loaded from publisher and developer Epic’s website.

Things could be changing though, as 9to5Google reports that Epic is planning to submit Fortnite to the Google Play Store soon. Epic is apparently submitting the game with its own payment platform, as opposed to adopting Google’s payment infrastructure.

The Fortnite developer made the decision to skip the Play Store due to Google taking a cut of revenue, traditionally pegged at roughly 30%. Instead, Epic keeps 100% of the cash when gamers spend money on virtual items and emotes in Fortnite.

All apps submitted to the Play Store are required to use Google’s payment infrastructure if they offer in-app purchases though. So it’s clear that Epic is hoping Google will make an exception. Unfortunately for Epic, it seems like the search giant might not be willing to bend the rules for Fortnite.

Fortnite Chapter 2: Everything we know so far (Update: Now live)

Update: Attention passengers, Fortnite Chapter 2 is now live! Check out the trailer above for the latest story details, and get even more info over at the official website. As predicted, we're not in Kansas anymore. …

“Android enables multiple app stores and choices for developers to distribute apps. Google Play has a business model and billing policy that allow us to invest in our platform and tools to help developers build successful businesses while keeping users safe,” read a statement by Google to 9to5Google. “We welcome any developer that recognizes the value of Google Play and expect them to participate under the same terms as other developers.”

It certainly sounds like Google doesn’t want to make an exception for Epic, but Fortnite coming to the Play Store would make it the more secure installation method in theory. The installer downloaded via the Fortnite website had a major security flaw upon launch, theoretically allowing hackers to remotely install malicious apps on a victim’s device. The web-based install method also opens the door for phishing attacks and other schemes, fooling users into thinking they’re on Epic’s website.

Do you think Google should make an exception for Fortnite? Let us know in the comments!