Android Telefónica Devices to Feature Epic Games Store

Epic Games and Telefónica Partner to Pre-install Epic Games Store on Android Devices

Epic Games has forged a significant partnership with Telefónica, a major telecommunications operator. This collaboration will result in the pre-installation of the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's various brands. This means users of O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo (other regions) will find the EGS readily available as a default option.

This seemingly minor detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games in expanding their mobile presence. Telefónica's global reach, encompassing numerous countries and brands, provides Epic with unprecedented access to a vast potential user base. The EGS will now compete directly with Google Play as a default app store on these devices. Given Epic's aggressive pursuit of market share, this partnership could prove to be a game-changer.

Convenience: A Key Factor

A significant hurdle for third-party app stores is user convenience. Many casual users remain unaware of, or unconcerned with, alternatives to pre-installed options. By securing this major deal, Epic gains a considerable advantage, becoming a default app store for users in Spain, the UK, Germany, Latin America, and beyond.

This agreement marks only the initial phase of a broader partnership. Epic and Telefónica previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena (Millennium Dome) within Fortnite in 2021.

This development offers Epic Games a significant opportunity to sidestep the ongoing legal battles with Apple and Google. The potential long-term benefits for both Epic and consumers are substantial.