Epic Games Store to come preinstalled on Android Telefónica devices

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 see the Epic Games Store (EGS) pre-installed on Android devices sold through Telefónica's network. This means users of O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo (other regions) will find the EGS as a default app option.

This seemingly small detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games for their mobile platform ambitions. Telefónica's global reach, operating under various brands in numerous countries, makes this a considerable expansion opportunity.

The Epic Games Store will now compete directly with Google Play as a default app store on these Telefónica-branded Android phones. Considering Epic's aggressive pursuit of market share, this partnership could prove a game-changer.

Convenience: A Key Factor

A significant hurdle for alternative app stores is user convenience. Many casual users are unaware of, or simply don't prioritize, app stores beyond the pre-installed options. By securing this deal, Epic gains a significant advantage, becoming a default app store for users in Spain, the UK, Germany, Latin America, and beyond.

This is only the first phase of the Epic Games and Telefónica partnership. The two companies previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena (also known as the Millennium Dome) within Fortnite in 2021.

This development marks a considerable step forward for Epic Games, who have faced challenges in their legal disputes with Apple and Google. This partnership has the potential for significant future benefits, ideally for both Epic and its users.