In a significant shift for the Android ecosystem, Google has announced the impending arrival of third-party app stores for US users. This development follows the launch of the Play Catalog Access Program, which will allow these external app stores to tap into the extensive catalog of applications available on the Google Play Store, starting July 22.
Details of the Program
Developers have been informed that the apps and games they submit to Google will be accessible to these third-party stores, enabling them to offer their products directly to users. Notably, while downloads will occur through these alternative platforms, the transactions will still be processed via Google Play, meaning that the company’s service fees will remain applicable.
This move is part of Google’s compliance with a court order stemming from its protracted legal battle with Epic Games. Following a settlement reached in November 2025, Google and Epic agreed to modify the original injunction imposed by US District Judge James Donato. A key component of this settlement was the introduction of a “Registered App Stores” program, which aimed to streamline the installation process for sideloaded apps from registered third-party stores.
However, recent developments have led to the withdrawal of this modified settlement, as reported by The Verge. On July 16, both companies decided to abandon their motion to alter the court’s injunction, opting instead to focus on the broader implications of their agreement.
Google’s Commitment to Developers
Dan Jackson, a spokesperson for Google, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering a competitive ecosystem. “We’ve agreed with Epic to withdraw our motion to modify the US Court’s injunction rather than prolonging this process which creates uncertainty for the ecosystem,” he stated. “This allows us to focus on executing our recently announced global business model evolution to deliver greater app store choice, lower prices, and more opportunities for developers and users.” He also reaffirmed Google’s dedication to maintaining Android’s industry-leading security.
Requirements for Third-Party Stores
As part of the new program, third-party app stores will be required to pay an upfront service fee of ,000 for a security review during the onboarding process, along with an annual fee of ,000 to retain access to the Play catalog. Additionally, these stores must adhere to a comprehensive set of requirements, the most crucial being that they target users within the United States. Notably, they are prohibited from using the Play catalog to distribute apps outside of the US.
In conjunction with these changes, Google has also opened the Play Store to external billing options and reduced its commission on app purchases from 30% to 10%. This allows developers to present alternative payment methods or direct users to their own websites for transactions within their app or game listings, further enhancing the flexibility and choice available to both developers and users.
