Android Phone Users to Get Epic Games Store Preinstalled

Epic Games and Telefónica Forge Major Mobile Gaming Partnership

Epic Games has partnered with Telefónica, a major telecommunications company, to pre-install the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's brands. This means users of O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo (various regions) will find the EGS readily available on their new phones.

This seemingly small detail represents a significant strategic move by Epic Games in expanding its mobile gaming presence. Telefónica's global reach, encompassing dozens of countries, ensures broad distribution of the EGS. This partnership positions the EGS alongside Google Play as a default app store option for many new Android users.

Convenience: A Key Factor

A major hurdle for alternative app stores is user convenience. Many casual users remain unaware of, or unconcerned with, options beyond the pre-installed app store. This deal strategically places the EGS as a default option for users in key markets like Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America, giving Epic a significant advantage.

This collaboration marks just the beginning of a long-term partnership. Epic and Telefónica previously collaborated on a Fortnite digital experience featuring the O2 Arena in 2021.

For Epic Games, currently navigating ongoing legal disputes with Apple and Google, this partnership offers a substantial opportunity for growth and market penetration in the mobile gaming sector, potentially benefiting both Epic and consumers.