Epic claims Apple 'cherry picked' data on 'Fortnite' and its popularity in latest filing

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After Apple accuses Epic Games of using its lawsuit to revitalize interest in Fortnite, the developer claims Apple "cherry picked" Google search results when it came to the game's popularity. Epic refutes Apple's claims that there's declining interest in Fortnite. It cites its user engagement data, saying "Over the period of time that Apple cherry-picked for its Google search volume comparison (between October 2019 and July 2020), the number of daily active users on Fortnite actually increased by more than 39%." 

Apple hasn't responded yet to Epic's latest filing. A full court hearing is scheduled for September 28. 

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'Fortnite: Save the World' will no longer work on macOS starting Sept. 23

The latest casualty in the ongoing legal battle between Apple and Epic Games is the castle-building, players vs. zombies version of Fortnite called Fortnite: Save the World. It will no longer work on macOS starting September 23. Fortnite: Save the World also stopped receiving updates when Apple cut off Epic's access to its developer account where it manages its games. Epic blames Apple for preventing them from distributing updates to the game, which will cause bugs in the future.

Epic will refund all players who bought any Save the World Founder's or Starter Packs (including Upgrades) and played the game on macOS between September 17, 2019, and September 17, 2020. According to Epic, any purchased V-Bucks spent on Llamas on macOS will also be refunded. Starter packs are no longer available for purchase on macOS. The developer cautions that it might take up to October 2, 2020, to receive the refunds. But there's no action needed from your end.

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Apple gives 'indefinite extension' for Sign In with Apple on 'Fortnite'

Epic Games originally announced on September 9 that Fortnite was losing its Sign In with Apple feature on September 11. The said date came, and Epic released an update saying Apple is giving them an "indefinite extension" to use it. The developer still recommends preparing for its removal by signing in with an email address and password instead of relying on Sign In with Apple. The feature is similar to what Google and Facebook offer, where you're allowed to register/sign in to an account or service using your Apple ID. Apple promises it offers greater privacy with options like Hide My Email. 

It isn't clear why Apple decided to extend Epic's access to the feature given how their legal fight continues to escalate.

Source: MacRumors

Apple seeks damages from Epic Games for breach of contract

Apple is going on the offensive and seeking damages from Epic Games for allegedly breaching its contract with the iOS App Store. In a wide-ranging motion filed on Tuesday afternoon, Apple defends itself against Epic's legal charges while accusing the Fortnite maker of outright theft.

The filing reads, "Epic's flagrant disregard for its contractual commitments and other misconduct has caused significant harm to Apple. Left unchecked, Epic's conduct threatens the very existence of the iOS ecosystem and its tremendous value to consumers."

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