The case of Epic Games and Apple threatens "serious consequences" for Nintendo, PlayStation and Xbox

The conflict between Epic and Apple could turn into problems for console manufacturers, according to judge Yvonne Gonzales Rogers. Now the court wants to get more information about the principles of closed platforms.

At the end of last week, Gonzalez Rogers published a decree that approved the decision not to return Fortnite to the App Store and prohibit Apple from blocking Unreal Engine developer accounts.

However, in addition to this, the judge pointed out another detail in the document: the proceedings in the case of Epic and Apple may affect not only themselves, but also Sony, Nintendo and Microsoft.

It’s all about the closed platform model.

Back during the September hearing, Gonzalez Rogers compared Apple to a “walled garden.” It was assumed that the company’s actions fit the model of a closed platform, in which only the owner controls the hardware, operating system, digital store and in-game purchases.

At the same time, the judge noted that Apple’s behavior does not stand out from the generally accepted practice for the gaming industry. Console manufacturers have the same closed platforms.

And if so, Gonzalez Rogers writes in the new document, then the verdict in the Epic and Apple dispute will affect the fate of other companies.

The next court hearing will take place only on May 3, 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has slowed down the consideration of cases.

Also on the topic:

• The trial of Epic Games and Apple will take place in May 2021Epic Games and Apple refused a jury trial
• Fortnite will not return to the App Store until at least next summer
• Is there any news?