Android app store Archives

AppWizard

November 16, 2025

Google U-Turns on Plan to Lock Out Unverified Android Developers

Google has revised its approach to mandatory identity verification rules for Android developers, which were initially announced in August. The rules required all Android developers to authenticate their identities through official identification and a fee, impacting app installations from unverified developers on certified Android devices. This announcement led to petitions and criticism from the developer community, including F-Droid, which argued that the rules aimed to consolidate power rather than enhance security. Google defended the initiative as a measure against Android malware, citing risks posed by malicious actors. In response to community feedback, Google announced plans for a "new advanced flow" allowing experienced users to accept risks associated with unverified software installations. The company also intends to create a dedicated account type for students and hobbyists to share their creations without full verification. Despite existing ID verification for Play Store developers, malware challenges persist in the Android ecosystem, highlighted by recent campaigns like ClayRat in 2025.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

Google backpedals on new Android developer registration rules

Google is recalibrating its "Developer Verification" initiative, originally set to launch in 2026, which aimed to prevent malware from sideloaded applications by requiring verified developer identities for app installations on certified Android devices. The initiative faced backlash from users and developers due to the registration process, which involved a fee and government identification, leading to reports to national regulators and decreased participation in the early access program. F-Droid, a third-party app store, criticized the initiative, claiming it was more about consolidating control than enhancing security.

BetaBeacon

November 11, 2025

‘Fortnite’ maker Epic Games, Google say they’re settling 5-year legal fight over Android app store

Epic Games has reached a settlement with Google regarding their legal dispute over the Google Play Store for Android apps. The settlement aims to make Android a more competitive platform by allowing third-party app stores to be distributed through Google's app store. The settlement also includes Google limiting payment processing commissions to between 9% and 20%.

BetaBeacon

November 11, 2025

Google, Epic Games reach ‘comprehensive settlement’ over long-running Play Store antitrust case

Epic Games and Google have reached a settlement agreement after a 5-year legal battle over the Play Store for Android apps. The settlement aims to make Android a more competitive platform by allowing the distribution of rival third-party app stores. The specific terms of the agreement remain confidential and subject to approval by a U.S. District Judge.

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.

BetaBeacon

November 7, 2025

Fortnite maker Epic Games and Google say they’re settling 5-year legal fight over Android app store

Epic Games and Google have settled their long-standing legal dispute regarding the Play Store for Android apps. The settlement agreement, which must be approved by a U.S. District Judge, includes provisions for Google to distribute rival third-party app stores and set limits on payment processing fees.

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.

BetaBeacon

November 6, 2025

Cary-based Epic Games and Google say they’re settling 5-year legal fight over Android app store

Epic Games has reached a settlement with Google regarding the tech giant's Play Store for Android apps after a 5-year legal battle. The settlement aims to enhance the Android platform for users and developers by opening Google's app store to rival third-party app stores for consumer choice.

BetaBeacon

November 6, 2025

Epic Games and Google Settle 5-Year Legal Dispute Over Android App Store Policies

Google and Epic Games have reached an agreement on app store fees, which would replace the court's previous injunction. Google can charge a 9 percent fee for non-gameplay items and a 20 percent fee for mixed bundles. Epic Games will be able to create an Epic Games Store on Android with minimal fees to Google. This agreement aims to make Android a more competitive platform for users and developers.

BetaBeacon

November 6, 2025

Epic Games and Google settle Android app store dispute with new competition framework

Epic Games and Google have reached a settlement to end their long-running dispute over app distribution and in-app billing on the Android platform. The settlement includes the introduction of "Registered App Stores" and allows developers to direct users toward alternative payment systems. The agreement aims to make Android more open and competitive for developers and consumers.