In a notable development this week, Google and Epic Games have opted to withdraw their joint motion aimed at modifying an injunction that mandates Google to facilitate third-party app stores within the Google Play ecosystem. This decision comes in light of the court’s apparent reluctance to entertain such modifications.
Google’s Commitment to Alternative App Stores
As a result of a permanent injunction issued in October 2024, Google is now required to support alternative app stores on Android devices. In a recent court filing, the tech giant announced plans to commence this support on July 22. In a statement to The Verge, Google articulated its rationale for withdrawing the motion, emphasizing a desire to sidestep a protracted legal dispute that could create uncertainty within the app 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. 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. We remain committed to maintaining Android’s industry-leading security and fostering a competitive ecosystem where every app store and developer has the freedom to compete. In parallel, we continue to comply with the US Court’s injunction.”
The legal tussle between Epic Games and Google has unfolded differently than Epic’s simultaneous lawsuit against Apple. While Apple largely emerged victorious in its case, Epic found favor in its claims against Google, with a jury concluding that Google had abused its market power by monopolizing app distribution and imposing excessive fees on developers.
New Opportunities for Third-Party App Stores
With the court’s ruling, third-party app stores in the U.S. will now gain the ability to distribute apps from the Google Play catalog. Google has proactively published a guide detailing the process for these app stores, which will be accessible via the Google Play Store. Notably, Google will implement a ,000 annual access fee for these alternative marketplaces. However, apps downloaded through these stores will still utilize the Google Play system, allowing Google to collect its service fee on transactions.
It is important to note that Google’s agreement with Epic Games, which includes provisions for reduced fees and acceptance of alternative payment methods, remains distinct from the injunction mandating support for third-party marketplaces. Google continues to enhance its support for external payment options while lowering fees for developers.
Implications for Apple and Ongoing Legal Battles
While the injunction requiring Google to support third-party app stores does not directly affect Apple, it represents a legal outcome that Apple has been contesting globally. The European Union’s Digital Markets Act compels Apple to accommodate alternative app marketplaces and sideloading, a requirement Apple argues undermines user privacy and security. Google’s move to support third-party app stores could potentially influence Apple’s ongoing legal challenges with Epic Games and future regulatory developments.
Despite its legal victories against Epic, Apple’s case is far from over. In 2021, Apple was ordered to permit link-outs and alternative payment options in the U.S., leading to compliance issues that resulted in a contempt ruling. Currently, Apple is appealing to the Supreme Court, with oral arguments anticipated in late 2026 or early 2027.
Update: This article has been revised to clarify that Google and Epic Games have not abandoned their settlement but have withdrawn their joint motion to modify the injunction requiring Google to support third-party app stores on its Android platform. Google intends to distribute third-party app stores through the Registered App Stores program, which will be rolled out globally later this year, with separate programs for the U.S. and other countries. The settlement between Epic Games and Google remains intact, ensuring lower fees and addressing litigation in Australia, the UK, and the U.S.
