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 readily available as a default option.

This seemingly small detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games in expanding their mobile presence. 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 significant hurdle for third-party app stores is user convenience. Many casual users are unaware of, or unconcerned with, alternatives to the pre-installed options on their phones. This deal positions Epic as a default option in key markets including Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America, providing a significant competitive advantage.

This partnership is only the beginning. Epic and Telefónica previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena within Fortnite in 2021. For Epic, currently navigating legal challenges with Apple and Google, this represents a major step forward, potentially leading to further benefits for both Epic and mobile users.