Epic: Improved iOS install process boosts use of alternative app stores

Epic Games reports that changes prompted by the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA) and Apple’s iOS 18.6 update — notably a smoother installation flow for alternative app stores — have significantly increased installs of the Epic Games Store on iOS. According to Epic’s figures cited in coverage, the install drop-off rate fell from about 65% to roughly 25% after Apple removed multiple “scare screens,” substantially improving user conversion.

Key points

• Epic credits the improved install experience with the rise in iOS installs for its store.
• Reported drop-off improvement: ~65% → ~25% (Epic, cited in TechCrunch / 9to5Mac).
• Epic still argues that Apple’s wider rules and restrictions continue to pose competitive barriers despite the DMA-driven changes.

Sources for more information:

• TechCrunch: Epic Games says Apple’s new install process cuts user drop-offs by 60%
• 9to5Mac: Epic Games gives backhanded compliment to Apple over removal of scare screens

What do you think? Will easier installs finally open iOS to meaningful competition — or are core platform rules still blocking real choice? Leave a comment below.