Epic Games and Telefónica Partner to Pre-install Epic Games Store on Android Devices
Epic Games has forged a significant partnership with telecommunications giant Telefónica, resulting in the pre-installation of the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's network. This means users of O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo (various regions) will find the EGS readily available as a default app.
This seemingly small detail represents a substantial strategic move by Epic Games to expand its mobile presence. Telefónica's global reach, operating in numerous countries under various brands, provides Epic with unprecedented access to a vast potential user 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 alternative app stores is user convenience. Many casual users remain unaware of, or unconcerned with, options beyond pre-installed apps. This partnership directly addresses this challenge. By securing pre-installation on Telefónica devices across key markets including Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America, Epic Games gains a considerable advantage.
This collaboration marks the first phase of a long-term partnership. The two companies previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena in Fortnite (2021). For Epic Games, currently navigating ongoing legal disputes with Apple and Google, this represents a strategic sidestep and a potential pathway to future success, benefiting both Epic and its users.
