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 result in the pre-installation of the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's network. This means users of brands like O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo 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 countries and brands, provides unprecedented access to a vast user base. The long-term partnership ensures the EGS will be prominently featured alongside Google Play, offering consumers an alternative app marketplace.

Convenience: A Key Factor

A significant hurdle for third-party app stores is user convenience. Many casual users remain unaware of, or unconcerned with, alternatives to pre-installed options. By securing a deal that establishes the EGS as a default app store in key markets like Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America, Epic Games has significantly improved its accessibility and visibility.

This collaboration marks only the beginning of the partnership between Epic Games and Telefónica. Their previous collaboration in 2021, a digital recreation of the O2 Arena within Fortnite, demonstrates a history of successful joint ventures.

For Epic Games, embroiled in ongoing legal disputes with Apple and Google, this partnership represents a significant strategic maneuver. This move could yield substantial benefits for both Epic Games and, hopefully, mobile gamers worldwide.