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 telecommunications giant Telefónica, resulting in the pre-installation of the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's network. This means millions of users of brands like O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo will find the EGS readily available on their new phones.

This seemingly small detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games for mobile gaming. Telefónica's global reach, encompassing numerous countries, 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 option.

Convenience: A Key Factor

A major hurdle for alternative app stores is user convenience. Many casual users are unaware of, or unconcerned with, options beyond the pre-installed stores. By securing this deal, Epic bypasses this obstacle, placing their storefront front and center for users in key markets including Spain, the UK, Germany, Latin America, and beyond.

This collaboration marks the first phase of a broader partnership. Epic and Telefónica previously collaborated on a digital recreation of London's O2 Arena within Fortnite in 2021.

This agreement is a significant development for Epic Games, particularly considering their ongoing legal battles with Apple and Google. It presents a strategic advantage and potentially paves the way for even greater future success, ultimately benefiting mobile gamers worldwide.