Epic Games Inc. failed again to force Apple Inc. to put “Fortnite” back in the mobile app store while the game developer pursues its antitrust claims against the iPhone maker.
A federal judge in Oakland on Friday rejected Epic’s bid for a preliminary injunction that would have required Apple to reinstate the battle royal video game in the app store. Apple had removed “Fortnite” in August after Epic set up a direct-pay option for in-game purchases that circumvented Apple’s pay system.
It’s Epic’s second setback in its lawsuit alleging that Apple runs its mobile app store as an illegal monopoly because developers are barred from making their iPhone and iPad apps available through their own websites. Instead, Apple allows downloads and payments only through its App Store, and it takes 30% of the purchase price. The case is headed for trial next year.
In a consolation for Epic, U.S. District