Overview
- Epic began replacing the launcher's underlying architecture in late 2025 and targets a May–June 2026 rollout that promises faster load times and greater stability.
- New player features include voice chat in Q2, player profiles, avatars, private messaging, game‑independent parties, and tests of forums for top games later in 2026.
- Epic also plans a cross‑platform library and regional storefronts with localized discovery this year, building on its PC–mobile ecosystem.
- For 2025, third‑party spending rose 57% to $400 million as third‑party playtime climbed 4% to 2.78 billion hours, even as total hours fell 14% to 6.65 billion and December MAUs hit a record 78 million.
- Store GM Steve Allison said the aim is a predictable 25–30% PC share, noted that about 60% of players also use Steam, and detailed Fortnite cosmetic tie‑ins scaling to roughly 100 items per year within 18–24 months.