Rumor: Android version Fortnite passes Play Store by sideloading option

The Android version of Fortnite, due to be released this summer, seems to encourage players to sideload the game, instead of downloading the app from Google’s Play Store. XDA Developers reports this based on code from a page to create an account.

The mobile webpage where an account for Fortnite can be created contains specific instructions for the upcoming Android version, according to XDA. Users of the Android version would be urged to sideload the app directly from an Epic Games site, rather than redirecting users to the Play Store.

It also mentions that users will have to give additional permissions when sideloading, so that it will be possible to install the app outside the Play Store. It is still unclear how developer Epic Games will release the game and when exactly that will happen. The company previously announced that the Android version will be released this summer. The iOS version of the game became available to all users as early as April.

The possible option to sideload Fortnite on Android devices is likely an Epic Games choice so that it doesn’t have to hand over some of its sales to Google. For in-game purchases in apps distributed through Play Store, the app developer must relinquish 30 percent of the proceeds. Fortnite’s battle royale mode is free to play; for revenue, the creator relies heavily on players who purchase cosmetic items in-game.

XDA recently claimed based on its own sources that Samsung wants to release its upcoming Galaxy Note 9 device together with Fortnite Mobile. The game may also be temporarily exclusive to that device.