If you have been following the news lately, Apple And Google have removed Fortnite from the App Store.
This ban happened because Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, bypassed the 30% fees for in app purchases. They did this by implementing their own in app purchase system in the app.
Obviously, Apple and Google did not like this very much as the game produces a large number of in app purchases - which in turn gives them a large cut of the profits. However, while it is sad to see that one of the most popular video games is no longer available for the time being on mobile devices - there is a bigger issue at hand here.
WE GOT REMOVED FROM THE APP STORE TOO!!
Our app Bouncy Ball Mayhem was removed from the App Store the same day Fortnite was. Unlike Fortnite, we were not removed for bypassing in app purchase fees. We were removed because Apple believes that our app:
“no longer functions as intended, don’t follow current review guidelines, or are outdated.”
We get it, Bouncy Ball Mayhem was the very first app that we developed. There is room for improvement on it and we will be updating the app to get it back on the App Store. The point being though, Apple’s decision on the removal of our app is very subjective.
While we understand that Apple and Google want to make sure that their App Stores are filled with apps that are relvant and will best serve their users - it poses other questions as to how much they control over the market.
It is fair to say that if you are a company trying to compete in the app market, you have to release your apps and content to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
However, is it fair that the acceptance and or removal of apps from these App Stores are subjective?
Is this killing creativity and innovation? This seems like a lot of power and control in the market for two companies to have.
What do you think? Comment your opinions below in the comment section. We are excited to hear what you think about this topic!
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