Android Telefónica Devices to Feature Preinstalled 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 telecommunications giant Telefónica, resulting in the pre-installation of the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's network. This means users of brands like O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo will find the EGS readily available as a default app option.

This seemingly minor detail represents a considerable strategic move by Epic Games in expanding its 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 primary app marketplace on these devices. This is a significant development, given Epic's ongoing efforts to establish a strong market position.

Convenience: A Key Factor

The key to success for alternative app stores often lies in user convenience. Many casual users remain unaware of, or unconcerned with, options beyond the pre-installed apps on their phones. By securing this deal with Telefónica, Epic gains a significant advantage by becoming a default option for users in major markets including the UK, Spain, Germany, and Latin America.

This collaboration marks only the beginning of a long-term partnership. Epic and Telefónica previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena in Fortnite back in 2021.

For Epic, embroiled in a prolonged legal battle with Apple and Google, this partnership offers a crucial strategic alternative, potentially yielding substantial benefits for both Epic and its users.