Telefonica Android Devices to Feature Epic Games Store Pre-Installed

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 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 Games in expanding their mobile presence. Telefónica's global reach, encompassing numerous brands and dozens of countries, 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 third-party app stores is user convenience. Many casual users are unaware of, or unconcerned with, alternatives to pre-installed options. Epic's deal with Telefónica directly addresses this, placing the EGS among default apps for users in key markets including Spain, the UK, Germany, Latin America, and beyond. This significantly improves accessibility and visibility.

This partnership is only the beginning. Epic and Telefónica previously collaborated on a digital experience featuring the O2 Arena within Fortnite in 2021.

This development marks a substantial step forward for Epic Games, particularly given their recent legal battles with Apple and Google. This strategic alliance could yield significant long-term benefits for both Epic and, importantly, mobile users.