In a significant development for the mobile application landscape, Google has committed to integrating a new system in the forthcoming version of Android. This initiative will allow third-party app stores to gain official recognition as legitimate sources for applications. These “Registered App Stores” will enable users to install apps directly from websites with just a single click, eliminating the cumbersome warnings typically associated with traditional sideloading methods.
Details of the Implementation
This enhancement is set to be implemented globally, expanding beyond the previous focus on the U.S. market. While the court motion lacks extensive details on the operational mechanics of these Registered App Stores, it is anticipated that the installation process will mirror the user-friendly experience of the Google Play Store. This could mean that installations from third-party stores will be streamlined, avoiding the intrusive notifications that often accompany sideloaded applications.
This is the kind of “friction” the settlement would avoid.
Credit: Ryan Whitwam
Moreover, Google retains the authority to establish “reasonable requirements” for the certification of these app stores. This could involve review processes and the imposition of fees; however, it is important to note that these fees will not be tied to revenue generation.
While the changes outlined in the settlement may not be as extensive as Judge Donato’s initial order, they signify a notable shift towards greater openness in the app market. The agreement is poised to benefit third-party app stores, reduce fees for developers, and expedite the overall process without prolonging it unnecessarily. The parties involved assert that this settlement does not seek to overturn the jury verdict or circumvent the court’s prior directives, but rather aims to uphold the court’s intentions while facilitating a smoother transition in the app marketplace.
As Google and Epic prepare to present their case to Judge Donato on Thursday for settlement approval, there is optimism that these billing changes could be operational by the end of this year. The anticipated modifications to the app store ecosystem are expected to coincide with the rollout of Android 17 around June next year. For those eager to see these developments unfold sooner, Google’s Android Canary and Beta releases may provide an early glimpse into this new system as early as 2026.
