Android Smartphones Preloaded with Epic Games Store via Telefónica Partnership

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 company. This collaboration will result in the pre-installation of the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Android devices sold through Telefónica's various brands. This means users of O2 (UK), Movistar, and Vivo (other regions) will find the EGS readily available as a default app.

This seemingly small detail represents a considerable strategic move by Epic Games for its mobile gaming ambitions. Telefónica's global reach, encompassing numerous countries and brands, provides the EGS with unprecedented access to a vast potential user base. The EGS will now compete directly with Google Play as a default app marketplace on these devices.

Convenience: A Key Factor

A key hurdle for third-party app stores is user convenience. Many casual users remain unaware of, or unconcerned with, alternatives to pre-installed options. This partnership positions Epic Games favorably, bypassing this obstacle and providing immediate access for users in Spain, the UK, Germany, Latin America, and beyond.

This collaboration marks only the beginning of a long-term partnership between Epic Games and Telefónica. Their previous collaboration in 2021, a digital recreation of the O2 Arena within Fortnite, showcases their successful history.

This move is particularly significant for Epic Games, who have recently navigated legal challenges with Apple and Google. This strategic partnership provides a substantial advantage and potentially paves the way for future success, ultimately benefiting mobile gamers worldwide.