Google Announces Changes to Play Store Transactions
Google has officially announced that it will no longer take a 30 percent cut of Play Store transactions. The tech giant is also implementing changes to how third-party app stores and alternate billing systems will be handled on Android. These adjustments were initially proposed as part of a settlement with Epic in November 2025, but Google is moving forward with the changes before final judicial approval.
The most significant change involves how Google will collect fees from developers who publish apps on Android. Instead of the standard 30 percent cut for in-app purchases through the Play Store, Google is reducing its share to 20 percent, and in some cases, as low as 15 percent for new app installs from developers participating in the new App Experience program or updated Google Play Games Level Up program. The fee reduction also extends to subscriptions, with Google’s cut dropping to 10 percent.
For developers using Google’s billing system in the UK, US, or European Economic Area (EEA), a five percent fee will be charged, along with a market-specific rate in other regions. Google is also making it easier for developers to offer alternative billing systems alongside its own, or guide users to their websites for purchases.
Additionally, third-party app stores can now apply to Google’s “Registered App Stores” program, which allows them to meet certain quality and safety benchmarks to streamline installation on Android. While participation in the program is optional, Google is encouraging developers to join to take advantage of the benefits.
Google plans to roll out these changes gradually, with the updated fee structure coming to specific regions by certain deadlines. The company aims to have the new fee structure in place globally by September 30, 2027. The Google Play Games Level Up program and App Experience program will launch in select regions before expanding to others.
These changes reflect Google’s ongoing efforts to adapt to the evolving app store landscape and regulatory environment. The company’s decision to lower fees and provide more flexibility for developers is seen as a positive step, driven by both external pressures and strategic business considerations.
