TL;DR
- EU Digital Markets Act now allows iOS sideloading for the first time since 2020
- Installation requires specific settings changes and Epic Games Store app download
- Security permissions must be manually enabled for third-party app marketplaces
- Process takes approximately 5-7 minutes with stable internet connection
- Fortnite performance comparable to native App Store games after installation
GameSpot may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and from purchases through links.
The European Union’s groundbreaking Digital Markets Act has fundamentally altered the iOS ecosystem, enabling Fortnite’s triumphant return to iPhones after a four-year absence. This regulatory shift compels Apple to permit alternative app marketplaces, creating an opening for Epic Games Store to operate on European iOS devices. Understanding these legal changes helps explain why this installation method differs significantly from traditional App Store downloads.
Before beginning the installation process, ensure your device meets specific criteria. Your iPhone must be physically located within an EU member country, run iOS 17.4 or later, and have adequate storage space. The sideloading capability represents a major departure from Apple’s walled-garden approach, offering users unprecedented freedom while introducing new security considerations that require careful management.
Security-conscious users should note that sideloading introduces different risk profiles compared to App Store installations. While Epic Games maintains robust security measures, the responsibility for verifying app authenticity partially shifts to users. We recommend enabling two-factor authentication on your Epic account and reviewing privacy settings before proceeding with installation.
Begin by launching Safari on your iPhone and navigating directly to the official Epic Games website. The site will automatically detect your EU location and present a prominent installation prompt for the Epic Games Store application. This initial step establishes the foundation for accessing Fortnite and other Epic titles on your iOS device.
When the installation attempt initially fails, don’t be alarmed—this is an expected part of Apple’s security protocol. The error message specifically indicates that your current device configuration prohibits third-party marketplace installations, directing you to the necessary settings adjustment.

Access your iPhone’s Settings application, where you’ll discover a new permissions entry near the top of the main menu. This special prompt reading “Allow Apps From Epic Games, Inc.” appears specifically because you attempted the installation, creating a temporary authorization window.

Select the conspicuous “Allow” button within the permissions screen to grant installation rights to Epic Games. This one-time authorization enables subsequent marketplace installations without repeating the settings configuration process.

Return to Safari and reinitiate the installation process. The previously blocked installation should now proceed smoothly, presenting the “Install App Marketplace” option that downloads the Epic Games Store to your device.


Once the Epic Games Store app completes installation, launch it directly from your home screen. The interface will guide you through Fortnite download and installation, typically requiring 2-4 GB of available storage depending on current game version and additional content.


If the installation process stalls or fails, several troubleshooting strategies can resolve most common problems. First, verify your internet connection stability—unstable Wi-Fi or cellular data often interrupts large downloads. Second, ensure your iPhone runs iOS 17.4 or newer, as earlier versions lack the necessary sideloading framework.

Performance optimization begins with proper account setup and device preparation. Clear sufficient storage space before installation, close background applications, and consider connecting to power during the download process. These precautions prevent interruptions and ensure optimal Fortnite performance upon launch.

Post-installation, you may need to adjust notification settings and review privacy permissions. The Epic Games Store operates independently from Apple’s ecosystem, meaning some features like Family Sharing and Screen Time controls function differently. Familiarize yourself with these distinctions to maximize your gaming experience.

For persistent issues, Epic Games provides dedicated support for EU iOS users through their help center. Common resolution areas include authentication problems, payment method compatibility, and performance optimization specific to different iPhone models and iOS versions.

Action Checklist
- Verify EU residency and iOS 17.4+ compatibility
- Visit Epic Games website via Safari and attempt installation
- Navigate to Settings and enable Epic Games permissions
- Return to Safari and complete Epic Games Store installation
- Download Fortnite through Epic Games Store app
No reproduction without permission:SeeYouSoon Game Club » How To Play Fortnite On iPhone In 2024 Complete guide to sideload Fortnite on iOS in EU with troubleshooting tips and security considerations
