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anti-competitive practices

Google, Epic Games Reach US Court Settlement on Android and App Store Reforms
BetaBeacon
November 6, 2025

Google, Epic Games Reach US Court Settlement on Android and App Store Reforms

Google has settled a lawsuit with Epic Games, which accused Google of maintaining a monopoly in app distribution and in-app payments through the Play Store. The settlement includes reforms allowing users to download third-party app stores and developers to offer alternative payment methods within their apps, with Google charging a capped service fee of 9 to 20%. This agreement is expected to have far-reaching effects on the mobile app market and may lead to changes in the business models of both Google's Play Store and Apple's iOS.
£2B UK cloud licensing claim against Microsoft seeks backers
Winsage
October 16, 2025

£2B UK cloud licensing claim against Microsoft seeks backers

The ongoing legal challenge against Microsoft seeks £2 billion in damages for alleged overcharging of businesses using its software on competing cloud platforms. The case was filed with the UK's Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) and highlights significant cost disparities when running Windows Server on rival clouds compared to Microsoft's own services. Dr. Maria Luisa Stasi is leading the initiative, which was officially filed in December 2024, following a 637-page report from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) that found Microsoft's licensing policies disadvantage customers using services from competitors. Key findings from the CMA's investigation include significant price discrepancies, restrictions on product availability through AWS and Google, and limitations on transferring licenses to these platforms. The CAT hearing in December will determine if the case proceeds to trial. Microsoft is also facing additional legal challenges, including a complaint from Google regarding its licensing practices and a ruling from Austria's Data Protection Authority about illegal tracking of students. The CMA has recommended leveraging digital market powers to address these issues, but no official actions have been announced.
US Supreme Court order stands, Google Play Store must open up to third parties
AppWizard
October 8, 2025

US Supreme Court order stands, Google Play Store must open up to third parties

The U.S. Supreme Court has reaffirmed its previous ruling concerning Google, rejecting the company's request for a pause on specific aspects of the case. Google has been directed to implement changes to address anti-competitive practices within the Play Store, as outlined by U.S. District Judge James Donato in 2024. The Ninth Circuit ruled in favor of Epic Games, allowing it to operate its Game Store on the Play Store and determining that Google engaged in monopolistic behavior regarding Android app distribution and in-app billing. Google is prohibited from mandating the use of its Play Billing services. The Supreme Court's decision reflects a commitment to promoting fair competition in the digital marketplace.
If Microsoft wins this UK court case it might spell the end of second-hand Windows licenses
Winsage
September 10, 2025

If Microsoft wins this UK court case it might spell the end of second-hand Windows licenses

Microsoft and software reseller ValueLicensing are in a legal battle at the UK Competition Appeal Tribunal, which could significantly impact the second-hand software market in Europe. ValueLicensing is claiming £270 million from Microsoft, alleging anti-competitive practices that limit the availability of licenses for resale. The dispute centers on copyright laws, with Microsoft arguing that certain components of its operating system cannot be resold. The trial's outcome may set a precedent affecting the future of software resale and consumer access to affordable Microsoft products.
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