(Reuters) – Telefonica has announced a partnership with Epic Games to introduce the Epic Games Store marketplace app directly to millions of devices on Telefonica’s network. This collaboration aims to make popular game titles such as “Fortnite”, “Fall Guys”, and “Rocket League Sideswipe” more easily accessible to users.
The Epic Games Store app will come pre-installed on all new compatible Android devices operating on Telefonica’s network in regions including Spain, the UK, Germany, Mexico, and Spanish-speaking Latin America. This move marks the first time that Epic’s Game Store will be pre-installed on Android devices, providing users with a convenient way to download their favorite games.
In addition to Epic’s own games, users will also have the option to download third-party games in the future. Epic has been striving to expand the distribution of its games beyond traditional app stores, citing concerns about app store competition.
Google Play policy communications manager Danielle Cohen responded to Epic’s accusations, stating that developers have always had the option to work with carriers to preinstall their apps or app stores. She emphasized that Epic is now pursuing these available options.
Epic had previously clashed with Google and Apple over their payment rules, which included charging up to 30% commissions on app store transactions. After a ban lasting nearly four years, Fortnite made a comeback on iPhones in the European Union and Google’s Android devices in August.
Epic, based in Cary, North Carolina, and Telefonica revealed plans to expand their partnership in the coming year to offer more benefits to mobile players on the Telefonica network. Specific details about these future benefits were not disclosed.
