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 various brands, including O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo in other regions.

This seemingly small detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games to expand its mobile presence. Telefónica's extensive global reach, operating in numerous countries, will expose the EGS to a vast new audience. The pre-installation means the EGS will be readily available alongside Google Play, offering users a readily accessible alternative app store.

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 pre-installation on Telefónica devices in key markets like Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America, Epic gains a considerable advantage.

This agreement marks only the initial phase of a long-term partnership. Epic and Telefónica previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena within Fortnite in 2021.

For Epic Games, embroiled in a protracted legal battle with Apple and Google, this partnership offers a significant strategic detour, potentially yielding substantial future benefits for both Epic and mobile users.