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Google and Epic propose Android settlement modifying antitrust injunction
AppWizard
November 10, 2025

Google and Epic propose Android settlement modifying antitrust injunction

On November 4, 2025, Google and Epic Games filed a joint motion with the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California to modify a permanent injunction from Epic's antitrust litigation against Google. The modified injunction retains prohibitions on Google's revenue-sharing practices and mandates that app developers are not required to launch exclusively on the Google Play Store. It introduces a "Registered App Store" system for third-party app stores, allowing users to install these through a streamlined process. The settlement extends globally, promoting competition across all Android markets. Developers are granted rights to offer alternative in-app payment methods and can present various payment options side-by-side. The modified injunction caps service fees that Google can charge on transactions in Play-distributed apps using alternative payment methods, extending through 2032. A Technical Committee will oversee disputes related to the new terms. The settlement's effectiveness depends on court acceptance and coordination with a separate settlement between Google and state attorneys general. The settlement is part of ongoing antitrust scrutiny facing Google. Following court approval, Google will have eight months to implement the necessary technology for the registered app store program.
silver Android smartphone
BetaBeacon
November 7, 2025

Google vs Epic Games: New rules for Android developers inbound

The proposed changes address Android app distribution and in-app payment services. Qualified third-party app stores will have a streamlined installation flow, and developers will be able to offer alternative in-app payment methods. Google will retain oversight mechanisms and charge reasonable fees for the review process. The new rules specify maximum fees that Google can charge for alternative transactions. This settlement provides developers with a clearer and longer-term roadmap for the Android platform.
Epic Games and Google Propose Landmark Global Settlement to Reshape Android App Store
BetaBeacon
November 6, 2025

Epic Games and Google Propose Landmark Global Settlement to Reshape Android App Store

Google and Epic Games have reached a settlement in the Epic v Google case, with Google proposing to make changes to open up the Android market globally and extend the settlement through June 30, 2032. The settlement includes a new fee structure for developers, allowing them to use alternative payment systems and reducing fees for in-app purchases. Additionally, a new program will make it easier for users to install alternative app stores. Both CEOs hailed the settlement as a win for the original vision of Android as an open platform.
Google is giving users more options to pay for apps, and hopefully save some money too
AppWizard
October 30, 2025

Google is giving users more options to pay for apps, and hopefully save some money too

Google has revised its Play Store policy, allowing Android developers to present alternative billing options and link to external payment systems. Developers can now implement their own billing systems instead of relying solely on Google Play Billing and are permitted to link directly to external checkout pages within their applications. This external billing option is currently limited to the U.S. market and will remain in effect until November 1, 2027. Google has also instituted new rules requiring certain apps to verify the age of users prior to download. Historically, Google restricted developers from guiding users toward more affordable payment alternatives outside the Play Store. With the new policy, developers can promote special offers and manage in-app payments outside of Google’s ecosystem, potentially leading to lower subscription rates for users.
Google Play now allows Android apps to use other billing systems in the US
AppWizard
October 30, 2025

Google Play now allows Android apps to use other billing systems in the US

Google is required to change its Play Store policies in the U.S. due to a court ruling, allowing developers to use alternative billing systems starting October 29. Developers can now inform users about alternative pricing and availability options outside the Play Store and implement their own payment systems for in-app transactions. They may also continue using Google Play Billing and offer lower prices for alternative payment methods. This ruling is a result of a legal dispute with Epic Games and restricts Google from certain exclusivity agreements with OEMs and app developers.
US court mandates Android app competition, loosens billing rules
AppWizard
August 4, 2025

US court mandates Android app competition, loosens billing rules

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Google's dominance in Android app distribution is illegal, reinforcing a previous jury verdict in favor of Epic Games. Google is now subject to a three-year injunction from 2024 to 2027, requiring the inclusion of rival app stores and alternative billing systems in the Google Play Store. A technical compliance committee, appointed by Epic and Google, will oversee the implementation, ensuring competitors access Google’s app catalog while minimizing security risks. Developers will no longer be required to use Google’s billing system for in-app purchases. Market analysts predict that this could lead to a decline in Google’s app revenue by .5 billion annually. Google plans to appeal the decision and seek delays to prevent rapid changes. Advocates for the ruling, including Microsoft and regulators, view it as a significant step toward a more competitive mobile market.
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