Google to Allow Third-Party Android App Stores Access to Play Store Catalog
Google has announced that starting July 22, third-party Android app stores in the US will have access to the Google Play Store’s catalog of apps through the new Play Catalog Access Programme. This means eligible third-party app stores will be able to list apps available on Google Play and offer them to users. However, the actual download process will still be completed through the Google Play Store, similar to a regular Play Store download.
Google has stated that the same terms and conditions that apply to direct downloads from the Play Store will also apply to apps downloaded through third-party app stores. Additionally, the Google Play service fee will continue to apply to these app downloads.
Who can join?
Only Android app stores operating in the US, registered as a business or organisation, and running a legitimate app marketplace can join the programme.
Requirements
The app store must display essential information such as app name, developer name, app description, version number, file size, permissions required, legal information, and developer contact details. Users must approve every app installation or ownership transfer, and the store must provide options for automatic or manual app updates. Furthermore, every participating app store must offer easy access to customer support for users facing issues.
Rules for using Google’s Play Catalog
App stores using Google’s catalog must distribute Play Store apps only in the US, clearly inform users that the app is from Google Play before installation, update their app listings regularly, offer other apps besides those in Google’s catalogue, refrain from charging extra fees for downloads, and not misuse or share Google’s app catalog data.
Annual fee
Google will charge app store operators an annual ,000 service fee, covering security checks and policy reviews.
How to join the programme
App store operators must ensure they meet Google’s eligibility rules, submit an application, accept the Play Catalog Access Programme agreement, pay the onboarding fee, create an app store account in the Play Console, submit required information and the app store APK for review, and integrate Google’s Inline Install API upon approval.
This move by Google is in compliance with a court order following its legal battle with Epic Games, the company behind Fortnite. In late 2023, a US court ruled in favor of Epic Games, ordering Google to facilitate competition for rival Android app stores. A settlement was reached in November 2025.
