Samsung denies Epic Games' allegations over Fortnite download process

Epic Games has accused Samsung of making the process too complicated to download its hugely popular game, Fortnite, on certain mobile devices.

In a legal complaint that it plans to file on Monday, Epic claims users must go through 21 steps before they can play the game on a new Samsung device, which includes encountering security warnings and modifying settings.

Epic alleges that as a result, 50% of users trying to install the game on these devices abandon the process before completing it.

Samsung responded, saying it would "vigorously contest" the "baseless claims."

Epic asserts that for other Android phones and tablets, the installation process takes 12 steps, not 21.

The company has attributed the issue to a Samsung feature called Auto Blocker, which is enabled by default on Samsung’s latest devices.

The tool is designed to prevent "malicious activity" and block app installations from unauthorized sources.

Epic argues that Auto Blocker is hindering Fortnite downloads, claiming that this violates competition laws.

Samsung denies these allegations, stating that users have the option to disable Auto Blocker if they wish.

"Contrary to Epic Game's assertions, Samsung actively fosters market competition, enhances consumer choice, and conducts its operations fairly," the company said.

It continued, "The features integrated into our devices are designed in accordance with Samsung’s core principles of security, privacy, and user control, and we remain fully committed to safeguarding users' personal data."

Apps from Samsung or Google’s stores can typically be downloaded with just a few clicks, as they have already been approved by the respective companies.

However, Fortnite must be downloaded from Epic's store, which triggers Samsung's Auto Blocker, warning users about potential risks.

Epic contends that both Google and Samsung are aware that Fortnite is a legitimate app, so warnings should not be issued.

This is because Fortnite was previously available on Google Play, Android’s official app store, and Samsung has previously collaborated with Epic, hosting Fortnite competitions and creating digital skins for the game’s characters.

“Epic’s latest lawsuit is a meritless and dangerous move," said Google engineering VP Dave Kleidermacher in a statement.

He clarified that Google did not ask Samsung to create the Auto Blocker feature, and that Android device manufacturers are free to design their own security tools.

"While Android allows sideloading, Google and the security community have warned users for years about the real risks associated with downloading apps directly from the web," he said.