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Apple Terminates Epic Games iOS Developer Account for Sweden

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Apple has terminated Epic Games iOS development account for Sweden as a new and unprecedented move against a company using their services.
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The feud between Epic Games, a game development company, and Apple has entered a new stage.  Apple has terminated Epic Games iOS development account for Sweden as a new and unprecedented move against a company using their services.

This comes as no surprise to those following the conflict between the two companies as it comes as a response to Epic Games’ success with their court battles against Apple.  It’s an important matter beyond just the relationship between these two companies.

Since Apple and Google are hosting the developer accounts and stores used by independent companies and creators, they can control who gets to find an audience on their platforms.  That’s why so many players using crypto are choosing independent and blockchain-based games.  No intermediary is needed to play roulette with BTC online so that no one can shut it down unilaterally.

What has happened?

Apple has terminated a new developer account that Epic Games has set up for their Swedish market.  The account is made so that Epic Games can put Fornite and the other games they are known for on the market for their European players.

Their online store can also be used to make in-game purchases, which is the biggest and most lucrative part of Epic Games’ business.  Without access to the Apple store, it can’t sell its games or in-game items, as there’s no other platform for iOS users to do so.

Apple’s Statement

Apple has issued a statement on the matter, and they’ve said that terminating the account was within their rights and in accordance with the court decision that the US court has issued based on the lawsuit Epic Games has pursued against Apple and Google.

“Epic’s egregious breach of its contractual obligations to Apple led courts to determine that Apple has the right to terminate ‘any or all of Epic Games’ wholly owned subsidiaries, affiliates, and/or other entities under Epic Games’ control at any time and at Apple’s sole discretion,‘” an Apple spokesperson said in a statement.  “In light of Epic’s past and ongoing behavior, Apple chose to exercise that right.”

Epic Games Statement

Epic Games has issued a blog post detailing the issue and placing the blame on Apple alone.  The post refers to the broader issue of the Digital Markets Act.  At the same time, Apple has based its decision on the rulings of the US court rather than on this piece of legislation that governs the EU markets.

To our surprise, Apple has terminated that account, and we cannot develop the Epic Games Store for iOS.  This is a serious violation of the DMA and shows Apple has no intention of allowing actual competition on iOS devices.

In terminating Epic’s developer account, Apple is taking out one of the largest potential competitors to the Apple App Store.  They are undermining our ability to be a viable competitor, and they are showing other developers what happens when you try to compete with Apple or are critical of their unfair practices.

What’s DMA?

DMA stands for Digital Markets Act.  It’s a law issued by the EU that regulates the issue between Epic Games and Apple.  The law requires Apple and Google to allow third-party apps in their stores.

Even though the law is written in technical and complex language – the basic issue it covers is breaking the monopoly the two giant corporations have on app market platforms.  By controlling the platforms from which the users download their apps, the two companies can block small and third-party providers from getting to their users in the first place.

Opponents of the regulation claim that European laws are too strict and essentially anti-business.  However, since the EU is a huge market for large tech companies, they need to comply with the regulations, even though they differ from those in the US.  Smaller companies, by which we mean anyone who isn’t Google or Apple, use EU regulations to be treated better.

The Lawsuit

Apple’s decision came after Epic Games filed a lawsuit against it.  In it, the Fortnite creators argued that Apple has a monopoly in the market and that they are charging a huge markup for using the Apple Store.

At the time, Apple was taking 30 percent out of every purchase made via their store.  The court decided against Epic Games, allowing Apple to charge as much as they wanted as a fee for their services.  Apple was also preventing the apps that use their platform from advertising other platforms that the users could move to instead.  The court decided that this practice was illegal and stopped Apple from doing so.

The European Case

Apple also came under fire for the same issues when it comes to European regulations.  These are more comprehensive and stricter when it comes to monopolies.  That’s why Apple was charged a fine of $1.95 billion for “abusing its dominant position on the market for the distribution of music streaming apps” to iPhone and iPad users.”

This case started with a complaint from Spotify that stated Apple prevented their users from getting information about Spotify’s music streaming service, which was less expensive than the one offered by Spotify.  They won, and the decision will have huge ramifications for third-party apps using Apple and Google platforms.

Epic Games

Epic Games is one of the biggest companies in the industry when it comes to casual online multiplayer games.  It’s the powerhouse behind the biggest game, Fortnite, and it’s generated billions of dollars.  Furthermore, the news came just a few days after Disney and Epic Games announced that Disney had invested $1.5 billion into the company.

The news of this deal excited the fans since they’ll be able to play Fortnite and other Epic Games titles with their favorite Disney characters.  The two are now sharing IPs, and we’re eagerly awaiting the cooperation that will come out of it.  Apple’s actions are even stranger now when Disney is behind Epic Games, as it seems like an extreme and vindictive move.

Criticizing Apple Publicly

Epic Games has claimed that the ban and the escalation are caused by their public criticism of Apple and its business practices.  Apple has come out with a public plan to comply with DMA, and Epic Games is publicly critical of it.

Apple is retaliating against Epic for speaking out against Apple’s unfair and illegal practices, just as they’ve done to other developers time and time again.  If Apple maintains its power to kick a third-party marketplace off iOS at its sole discretion, no reasonable developer would be willing to utilize a third-party app store because they could be permanently separated from their audience at any time.”

This approach to the subject matter is likely to garner support for Epic Games, not only due to the quality of their game but also because it can affect other third-party apps dependent on Apple.

Conclusion

Apple has banned Epic Games, including Fortnite, and in-game purchases for it in its store.  This is a reaction to the lawsuit Epic Games has pursued against Apple.  The matter has implications for gamers everywhere since Apple and Google control which apps you can download from their stores and can ban third-party apps as they see fit.

Author Bio

Awais Dar, founder of the Finnish news outlet SuomiTimes.com

eSports

TEAM VITALITY UNVEILS A SPECIAL EDITION JERSEY AND NEW CAMPAIGN FOR PERFECT WORLD SHANGHAI MAJOR 2024

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  • Leading global esports organization Team Vitality heads to China for the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024, fueled by the ambition to reclaim their place at the top as the world’s best CS2 team.
  • The team will proudly debut the club’s Shanghai Major Limited Edition White Fan Jersey from the Qualification Stage (RMR) onward. Designed in collaboration with Paris-based contemporary artist Nairone, this special edition jersey pays tribute to Counter-Strike and Team Vitality’s dedicated Chinese fanbase.
  • For the occasion, Team Vitality is proud to present a new campaign titled “The Year of Vitality”.

Global esports leader Team Vitality proudly announces its participation in the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024. As one of the most competitive teams in the international esports circuit, Team Vitality is set to make a powerful impact in Shanghai in what promises to be a thrilling tournament.

With anticipation building for this pivotal event in a country full of dedicated Counter-Strike fans, the club will be unveiling a new campaign on its Chinese social media accounts named “The Year of Vitality” This tribute to Chinese culture also underscores the team’s determination to secure a back-to-back victory, solidifying its global dominance.

ALL EYES ON THE TROPHY

Team Vitality’s CS2 roster has consistently delivered strong performances over the past two years, capped by their recent win at Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Cologne 2024. Having claimed the World Champion title at the BLAST Premier World Finals in 2023 and secured an iconic victory at the BLAST.TV Paris Major, the team has firmly established itself as one of the most dominant forces in competitive CS2. After a conclusive 3-0 qualification at the RMR in Shanghai, Team Vitality is set to reinforce its status on the world stage.

Team Vitality’s dedication to competitive excellence since entering the scene in 2018 has been instrumental in shaping the modern Counter-Strike era. With legends like ZywOo, crowned HLTV’s best player in 2019, 2020, and 2023, and apEx, a seasoned pro with over a decade in the game, the team has set new industry standards in skill, dedication, and leadership. Building on this momentum, Team Vitality is poised to leave a lasting legacy in esports and proudly represent France in Shanghai.

We are thrilled to compete at the Shanghai Major and showcase the team’s hard work against the best teams globally,” says Fabien ‘Neo’ Devide, Chairman and Co-founder of Team Vitality. Growing our global presence and supporting both players and our worldwide community remains a top priority. We’re especially excited for zywOo to deliver a stellar performance in front of our Chinese fans. I am incredibly proud of the team and can’t wait to see them on the big stage with our fans in China!

GEARED UP FOR VICTORY WITH SHANGHAI EDITION OF THE ALTERNATE JERSEY

Team Vitality players will debut a special edition of their newly released Alternate Jersey on the stage, created exclusively for the Shanghai Major. This limited edition features a prominent “V” on the back, with design elements that pay homage to Counter-Strike, Shanghai, and the wider Chinese fanbase. The club released the exclusive jersey in a dedicated video that includes Chinese references, graphics and design.

Crafted in collaboration with Paris-based contemporary artist Nairone, known for his striking black-and-white contrast style, the jersey blends modern streetwear aesthetics with esports flair, making it a standout choice for both fans and players. Team Vitality’s PERFECT video showcases how the 2024 Alternate Jersey can be styled, featuring star players and brand ambassadors, underscoring its unique place in both the fashion and esports worlds.

Available for purchase only online, this special version of the alternate jersey is limited to 150 pieces and costs 89,99€.

TEAM VITALITY UNVEILS ITS NEW CAMPAIGN “THE YEAR OF VITALITY”

Team Vitality is excited to launch “The Year of Vitality,” a campaign celebrating Chinese culture and dedicated to Counter-Strike fans across China. This initiative reflects the team’s relentless pursuit of back-to-back victories on the world stage.

As China hosts this year’s Major, Team Vitality has chosen the dragon—a powerful symbol of ambition and determination—as the emblem of its campaign, representing the team’s commitment to overcoming challenges and dominating the competition. Each campaign visual draws inspiration from Chinese iconography, bringing the Counter-Strike team into this vibrant, culturally rich world.

In a tribute to Chinese tradition, the campaign combines gold and red to signify not only the country’s national colors but also the passion, energy, and unyielding drive to win. The design aims to honor Chinese fans’ enthusiasm and capture their hearts as Team Vitality battles to bring home another title.

Join us online to get behind-the-scenes content, exclusive updates, and the chance to celebrate each milestone with the team as they strive to secure their place at the top!

 

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Saroca Unveils the Transformational Leadership Program for 2025

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Saroca, a leader in professional development for the gaming industry, is proud to announce its Transformational Leadership Program, launching February 2025.
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Saroca Reimagines Leadership Development for the Gaming Industry

Saroca, a leader in professional development for the gaming industry, is proud to announce its Transformational Leadership Program, launching February 2025. Building on the success of the 2024 LeadHERship Program—a pioneering initiative for women in gaming—the new program expands its reach with two distinct cohorts: one exclusively for women and another open to all genders.

The Legacy of LeadHERship

The 2024 LeadHERship Program achieved an exceptional Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 90, with participants citing transformative growth. With participants like Clemence Dujardin citing it as a “game-changer”. Confidence in leadership abilities rose by 46%, resilience increased by 27%, and imposter syndrome diminished by 39%.

Participants praised the program’s focus on emotional resilience, feedback mastery, executive presence and communication all in a supportive community.

Leadership Development: A Game-Changer for Gaming

In a rapidly evolving and diversifying industry, strong leadership is essential. Saroca’s programs go beyond skill-building to foster resilience, trust, and inclusivity—key traits for thriving in the global gaming market.

“We believe leadership is not about hierarchy—it’s about transformation,” said Emily Leeb, CEO of Saroca. “The Transformational Leadership Program reflects our commitment to cultivating leaders who will shape the future of gaming.”

Transformational Leadership Program Highlights

The program builds on the proven curriculum of its predecessor, featuring:

  • Two Cohorts: A women-only cohort and a new all-gender cohort to enrich perspectives.
  • Eight Modules: Covering topics such as emotional intelligence, self-advocacy, and radical candor.
  • Community and Growth Tracking: Strengthening connections and measuring individual progress.

Registration Now Open

The Transformational Leadership Program begins in February 2025, with limited spots available. Scholarships are also offered to ensure accessibility. For more information, visit Saroca’s website or contact [email protected].

About Saroca

Saroca is a leader in leadership development for the gaming industry, committed to empowering professionals through inclusive, high-impact programs that drive personal and professional growth.

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Play’n GO announces partnership with Austrian state lottery operator Win2Day

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Play’n GO, the world’s leading casino entertainment provider, has today announced a partnership with Austrian state lottery operator Win2Day.  

This partnership sees legendary titles from the Swedish-founded gaming giant, such as Reactoonz, Rise of Olympus, and Rich Wilde and the Tome of Madness live on Win2Day’s platform for players to enjoy.  

As of November 2024, Play’n GO offers a portfolio of over 350 premium titles in over 30 jurisdictions worldwide.  

Tove Aldefors, Head of Regional Sales Central and Western Europe at Play’n GO, said “It’s exciting to launch our games with the Austrian state lottery, and Win2Day are the perfect partner for our brand. They share our beliefs about a regulated, sustainable, player entertainment-led industry. We’re looking forward to many years of success working together.” 

Georg Wawer, Managing Director win2day, added “We are the only licensed operator in Austria. Therefore our objective is to provide all major igaming operators on our platform. Play’n GO is one of the international powerhouses and therefore we are delighted to be able to offer their content on our platform. We view Play’n GO as a competent and responsible partner for win2day and we’re confident this partnership will prove fruitful.” 

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