Epic Games has filed a legal complaint against Samsung, alleging that the tech giant has made it excessively difficult for users to download its popular video game, Fortnite, on certain mobile devices. In a statement set to be filed on Monday, Epic claims that players must navigate through “21 steps” before they can access the game on new Samsung products, which includes facing multiple security warnings and adjusting settings.
According to Epic, this cumbersome process results in 50% of users abandoning the download attempt. The company contends that on other Android devices, the installation process only requires 12 steps. Epic has pointed to a Samsung feature called Auto Blocker, which is automatically enabled on the company’s latest devices, as a significant barrier. This tool is designed to block potentially malicious activities and prevent app installations from unverified sources.
In response, Samsung stated it would “vigorously contest” what it called “baseless claims.” The company argued that users can deactivate Auto Blocker if they wish. “Contrary to Epic Games’ assertions, Samsung actively fosters market competition, enhances consumer choice, and conducts its operations fairly,” the company said. “The features integrated into our devices are designed in accordance with Samsung’s core principles of security, privacy, and user control.”
Downloading apps from Samsung or Google’s official stores is typically a straightforward process, requiring only a couple of clicks, as these apps have already been vetted. However, Fortnite must be downloaded from Epic’s own store, which triggers the Auto Blocker feature and prompts users with warnings.
Epic argues that both Samsung and Google recognize Fortnite as a legitimate application, citing its previous availability on the Google Play Store and past collaborations with Samsung for Fortnite-related promotions and events.
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, expressed his disappointment about having to initiate further legal action. “The fight against Samsung… is new, and it really sucks,” he said. “I did not think we would end up in this place.” Sweeney also indicated that Epic might have profited more had it not pursued previous legal battles, but emphasized his desire to establish a “truly level playing field” for developers.
Epic is advocating for a streamlined process that would allow legitimate third-party app developers to apply for exemption from Auto Blocker but has yet to secure an agreement with Samsung. The ongoing conflict follows Fortnite’s removal from Apple and Google’s app stores in 2020 after Epic introduced its own in-app payment system. Notably, in December 2023, Epic won a court case against Google, which concluded that the company had been operating a monopoly in app distribution.
