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 result in the pre-installation of the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's network. This means users of O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo (various regions) will find the EGS readily available as a default option.

This seemingly minor detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games to expand their mobile presence. Telefónica's extensive global reach, encompassing numerous brands and dozens of countries, 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.

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. This partnership positions Epic Games strategically, offering their storefront as a default option to users in key markets including Spain, the UK, Germany, Latin America, and beyond.

This collaboration marks the first phase of a long-term partnership. The two companies previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena (also known as the Millennium Dome) within Fortnite in 2021.

For Epic Games, embroiled in a protracted legal battle with Apple and Google, this agreement represents a significant advancement. It paves the way for further expansion and potentially offers considerable benefits to mobile users.