Epic Games Sues Google and Samsung Again
Epic Games has filed a lawsuit against Google and Samsung, alleging unfair practices that hinder the exposure of its third-party software offerings. The focal point of the claim is Samsung’s Auto Blocker feature, which prevents the installation of software from unofficial sources. Epic argues that it is anti-competitive for the auto-blocker to be enabled by default, suggesting that Google influenced Samsung to implement it in this manner.
This legal battle echoes a previous lawsuit where Epic accused Google of anti-competitive behavior and monopolistic practices. Although Epic emerged victorious in that case, the outcomes were not entirely in its favor. The root cause of these disputes lies in Epic’s reluctance to pay fees to Google or Apple for processing payments and transactions, as it aims to retain more revenue generated from players.
Google has refuted any involvement in Samsung’s decision to incorporate the Auto Blocker feature. David Kleidermacher from Google’s Security and Privacy team dismissed Epic’s lawsuit as baseless and risky, emphasizing the importance of user safety in discouraging sideloading of apps.
In response, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeny criticized the cumbersome steps required to install the Epic Games Store on new Samsung devices, accusing Google and Samsung of misrepresenting the software as unsafe. The ongoing dispute between these tech giants reflects a broader trend of companies prioritizing corporate interests over user protection.
Key Takeaways
- Verification of software integrity is crucial for trust, and claims of being a “trusted source” must be substantiated.
- Installing non-Play Store apps on Android should involve user consent to maintain security standards.
- Samsung’s implementation of the Auto Blocker feature serves as a protective measure, albeit contentious in the eyes of Epic.
- Monetary considerations drive Epic’s resistance to Google’s payment processing fees, leading to legal confrontations.
Amidst the legal wrangling, user safety remains a paramount concern for both parties, underscoring the complexities of balancing security and accessibility in the digital landscape. As the lawsuit unfolds, the tech industry grapples with the implications of corporate rivalries on consumer welfare and industry practices.
