Android Phone Bundles Preloaded 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 Telefónica, a major telecommunications operator. This collaboration will see the Epic Games Store (EGS) pre-installed on Android devices sold through Telefónica's various brands, including O2 in the UK, Movistar, and Vivo in other regions. This means millions of users will find the EGS as a default app option upon purchasing their new phones.

This seemingly small detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games to expand its mobile presence. Telefónica's global reach, encompassing dozens of countries, provides Epic with unprecedented access to a vast consumer 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 are unaware of, or unconcerned with, alternatives to pre-installed options. This partnership directly addresses this challenge. By securing a default position on Telefónica devices in key markets like Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America, Epic gains a considerable advantage.

This agreement marks the first phase of a broader collaboration. The two companies previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena in Fortnite in 2021.

For Epic Games, embroiled in a protracted legal battle with Apple and Google, this partnership offers a significant strategic sidestep and potentially a substantial long-term benefit, promising increased accessibility for users worldwide.