To get Fortnite on iOS, use the official install path for your region: the Apple App Store in the United States, or the Epic Games Store via Safari in the European Union. No other method is officially supported by Epic Games.
How to get Fortnite on iOS: the only official methods
Fortnite is available on iPhone through two official routes that depend entirely on your region. In the United States, you download the game directly from the Apple App Store. In the European Union, you install the Epic Games Store through Safari and then install Fortnite from there. Epic Games states that third-party software is not officially supported, and using it is at your own risk.
Before you start: supported iPhones and iOS versions
Apple’s App Store listing confirms Fortnite works on iPhone 11 and newer, and iPhone SE (3rd generation), with iOS 17.0 or later required. The game originally supported iPhone SE, iPhone 6S/6S Plus or later, iPad Mini 4, iPad Air 2, iPad 5th/6th generation, iPad Pro, and iPod Touch 7th generation, requiring iOS 11 or later for compatibility with older devices. Epic’s EU install page specifies iOS 17.6 or higher, Apple’s EU region check, and Safari. Verify your device meets these requirements before proceeding.
Official method 1: install Fortnite from the Apple App Store (U.S. only)
This method applies only to users in the United States. Follow these steps on a supported iPhone running iOS 17.0 or later:
- Open the App Store on your iPhone.
- Find Fortnite in Apple’s App Store listing.
- Install the app on your device.
After installation, launch Fortnite and sign in or create an Epic Games account to play.
Official method 2: install Fortnite via the Epic Games Store (EU only)
This method applies only to users in the European Union. You must pass Apple’s EU region check, use Safari, and have iOS 17.6 or higher. Follow these steps:
- Open Safari on your iPhone.
- Go to Epic’s Fortnite iOS page.
- Tap the big blue “Get it on iPhone” button.
- If eligible, tap “Continue.”
- If prompted that the device is not set up to allow marketplaces by Epic Games, go to Settings and tap the banner that says “Allow Marketplace From Epic Games.”
- Choose “Allow.”
- Return to Safari.
- Tap “Install.”
- On the next screen, tap “Install App Marketplace.”
- Tap “Continue” on the confirmation pop-up.
- After the Epic Games Store is installed, select Fortnite and tap “Install.”
Once installed, open Fortnite and sign in with or create an Epic Games account to start playing.
A critical warning about unofficial third-party software
Epic Games explicitly states that Fortnite on iOS is not officially supported through third-party software. Any installation method outside the App Store (U.S.) or the Epic Games Store flow (EU) is unsupported and done entirely at your own risk. This includes sideloading, app marketplaces not authorized by Epic, or any other unofficial tools.
Getting into the game: creating or logging into your Epic account
After installing Fortnite through either official method, you will need to sign in with an existing Epic Games account or create a new one. Your account syncs progress and purchases across platforms where Fortnite is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play Fortnite on an iPad?
Yes. Apple’s App Store listing includes iPads in the United States, and Epic’s EU install flow also supports iPad. The same device and iOS requirements apply.
Why does Fortnite require iOS 17.6 in the EU but iOS 17.0 in the U.S.?
Apple’s App Store listing specifies iOS 17.0 or later for the U.S. version, while Epic’s EU install page requires iOS 17.6 or higher due to the different distribution method and EU-specific marketplace regulations.
What happens if I try to install Fortnite from the App Store outside the U.S.?
The App Store listing for Fortnite is only available in the United States. In other regions, including the EU, the game will not appear in search results or be downloadable from the App Store.
Will my Fortnite progress transfer between iOS and other platforms?
Yes, as long as you use the same Epic Games account. Your V-Bucks, Battle Pass progress, and cosmetic items sync across platforms where Fortnite is available.
Can I use a controller with Fortnite on iOS?
Yes. Fortnite on iOS supports Bluetooth controllers. Connect a compatible controller to your iPhone, then enable and customize it in the game’s settings.
Can I download and play Fortnite on iOS devices?
Fortnite is no longer available to download from the App Store for new players due to the dispute between Epic Games and Apple. Only those who previously downloaded it can still access it.
Is there any way to still play Fortnite on my iOS device?
Only players who previously downloaded Fortnite from the App Store before its removal can still access and play the game on iOS.
Are there any alternatives to Fortnite for iOS users?
Yes, popular alternatives include PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Garena Free Fire.
Will Fortnite ever return to the Apple App Store?
Its return remains uncertain due to the ongoing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple.
How do I fix lag or performance issues?
Close background apps, ensure a stable internet connection, and lower graphics settings in the game.
What should I do if the game crashes?
Restart your device, update iOS and Fortnite to the latest versions, and clear the game cache.
How can I manage in-app purchases for my family?
You can set spending limits or enable 'Ask to Buy' for family sharing. To completely disable in-app purchases, use iOS Screen Time restrictions.
For the wider topic, see popular mobile game recommendations.
