Epic Games Reports 60% Reduction in User Drop-Offs with Apple’s New Install Process
Fortnite creator Epic Games has reported a significant boost in user growth following Apple’s recent changes to its app installation process. The update, part of iOS 18.6, has led to a remarkable 60% reduction in the number of users abandoning the installation of alternative app marketplaces. This shift comes after Apple began allowing users in the European Union to install third-party app stores, a move mandated by the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Apple’s New Installation Process
Earlier this year, Apple faced criticism for its lengthy installation process, which included multiple warning screens that discouraged users from downloading apps outside the App Store. Developers expressed concerns that these tactics led to high abandonment rates among potential users. In response to non-compliance with DMA regulations, Apple was fined $568 million by the EU. However, the release of iOS 18.6 in July introduced a streamlined installation process. This new method features a single warning screen that informs users about potential limitations, such as the absence of certain subscription management features available through the App Store. It also clarifies that the alternative app store’s developer will manage user data directly.
Epic Games has noted a dramatic change in user behavior since the update. Prior to iOS 18.6, 65% of users attempting to install Epic’s game store abandoned the process. Following the update, that figure dropped to just 25%. The company highlighted that this new abandonment rate is now more in line with what they observe from users on Windows and macOS platforms.
Ongoing Criticism of Apple
Despite the positive impact of the new installation process, Epic Games continues to voice its concerns regarding Apple’s policies. The company criticizes Apple for imposing a core technology fee and for its stringent notarization and approval processes, which complicate app distribution through alternative app stores. Epic Games has reiterated arguments from its ongoing legal battle with Apple, emphasizing that users enjoy greater freedom to install apps from outside the App Store on Mac computers. Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software, Craig Federighi, previously warned that extending similar freedoms to iOS could lead to an influx of malware.
Epic’s Broader Battle Against Google
Epic Games is not only challenging Apple but is also taking aim at Google for its cumbersome installation process for third-party app stores. The company claims that Google’s warnings about potential risks associated with apps from competitors, such as Epic Games, mislead users. In a significant legal development, a U.S. court ruled last year that Google must open its Play Store to allow third-party app stores. In July, Google lost its appeal against this ruling, further intensifying the scrutiny on its app distribution practices. As Epic Games continues to navigate these challenges, the company remains focused on advocating for a more open and user-friendly app ecosystem.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn
