Fortnite is now available for download on iPhones in Brazil following the launch of the Epic Games Store on July 30, 2026.
The return of the popular title marks a significant shift in the distribution of software on Apple devices. By bypassing the traditional App Store, Epic Games is testing the viability of third-party marketplaces in South American markets.
Epic Games said the Epic Games Store is now available on iPhones in Brazil. This move allows the company to distribute Fortnite and other titles directly to consumers without relying on Apple's proprietary ecosystem.
However, the rollout has not been without friction. Epic Games said the installation process, which requires users to navigate a nine-step [1] sequence to gain access to the store, is a barrier to entry for its users.
This launch follows previous efforts by Epic Games to expand its reach on iOS. The company had previously planned a launch in the European Union in 2024 [2] as part of a broader strategy to challenge Apple's control over app distribution, and payment systems.
Despite the technical hurdles, the availability of Fortnite in Brazil represents a key expansion for the company. The move brings the game back to millions of iOS users who had previously been unable to access the title through official channels since its removal years ago.
“The Epic Games Store is now available on iPhones in Brazil.”
The launch in Brazil serves as a critical test case for third-party app stores outside of the European Union's regulatory framework. While the technical availability of Fortnite is a victory for Epic Games, the friction created by the nine-step installation process suggests that Apple may be implementing 'sludge'—intentional design hurdles—to discourage users from leaving the official App Store.
