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 (various regions) will find the EGS readily available as a default option.
This seemingly small detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games for their mobile gaming ambitions. Telefónica's 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 default app store on these devices.
Convenience: A Key Factor
A primary 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 directly addresses this challenge. By securing a prominent position as a default app store in key markets like Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America, Epic gains a significant competitive advantage.
This agreement marks only the beginning of the Epic Games and Telefónica collaboration. Their previous joint venture, a digital recreation of the O2 Arena within Fortnite in 2021, demonstrates a history of successful teamwork.
For Epic Games, embroiled in a protracted legal battle with Apple and Google, this partnership offers a strategic detour, potentially leading to substantial future gains – and hopefully, enhanced benefits for mobile gamers.
