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 considerable strategic move by Epic for mobile gaming. Telefónica's global reach, encompassing numerous brands and dozens of countries, makes this a substantial long-term partnership. The EGS will now stand alongside Google Play as a primary app store on these devices.
Convenience: A Key Factor
A major hurdle for alternative app stores is user convenience. Many casual users remain unaware of, or unconcerned with, options beyond their phone's pre-installed apps. Epic's deal directly addresses this, positioning the EGS as a default option for users in key markets including Spain, the UK, Germany, and Latin America. This represents a significant advantage.
This collaboration marks only the beginning of the partnership between Epic and Telefónica. Their previous collaboration, a 2021 digital experience featuring the O2 Arena in Fortnite, laid the groundwork for this latest development.
For Epic, currently navigating a legal battle with Apple and Google, this partnership offers a substantial strategic advantage and potentially significant future rewards for both Epic and its users.
