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Google Eases New Android Rules To Allow Sideloading of Apps on Google TV
AppWizard
November 13, 2025

Google Eases New Android Rules To Allow Sideloading of Apps on Google TV

Google has adjusted its identity verification plan for Android developers distributing apps outside the Play Store in response to developer community concerns. A new installation process is being created for experienced users who sideload apps from unverified developers, addressing fears that the original policy would limit sideloading capabilities. Initially, the policy required developers to provide personal information, which faced backlash from privacy advocates and open-source communities. Despite this, Google is moving forward with the verification system, launching an early access portal for developers on November 12, 2025. The new installation workflow will include multiple warnings and safeguards for users installing unverified software. Additionally, a lighter verification tier will be available for students and hobbyist developers, allowing them to bypass full identity requirements while limiting app distribution. The verification system aims to combat scam apps by linking developer accounts to real-world identities. The rollout of the new verification system will begin regionally in 2026 and expand globally in 2027. This policy shift coincides with a settlement between Google and Epic Games to reduce developer fees and support third-party app stores, pending judicial approval.
Google Agrees to Make Major Play Store Changes to Settle Epic Games Antitrust Lawsuit
BetaBeacon
November 6, 2025

Google Agrees to Make Major Play Store Changes to Settle Epic Games Antitrust Lawsuit

Google has proposed changes to its Play Store and Android in order to settle an antitrust dispute with Epic Games. The changes include allowing alternative payment methods for app developers, supporting Registered App Stores like Epic Games, and implementing new fee structures for transactions. The settlement could impact the ongoing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple, as Google's case is not directly applicable to Apple's situation.
Google and Epic reach proposed settlement to open Android app store access
AppWizard
November 5, 2025

Google and Epic reach proposed settlement to open Android app store access

Google and Epic Games have submitted a proposed agreement to a US judge in response to Epic's 2020 antitrust lawsuit against Google regarding app distribution and in-app payments on Android. The proposal allows users to download and install third-party app stores that meet updated security standards, aiming to create a more competitive app marketplace. Developers will be able to direct users to alternative payment methods, with Google implementing a capped service fee structure of 9% or 20%. The settlement is pending judicial approval and could lead to expanded choices for developers, lower fees, and enhanced competition while prioritizing user safety.
Epic v Google ends in deal expanding Android app freedom
AppWizard
November 5, 2025

Epic v Google ends in deal expanding Android app freedom

Epic Games and Google reached a settlement in their antitrust lawsuit, avoiding a potential Supreme Court ruling. The agreement includes global changes to the Android app ecosystem, allowing broader access for third-party app stores and reducing fees until 2032. Google will lower its standard service fee to 20% for the first year of a subscription or for transactions over one million dollars, and to 9% for other transactions. A new program will enable alternative app stores to register with Google for integration into the Google Play Store. The settlement's provisions will take effect internationally and are pending approval by Judge Donato.
Google Tells Supreme Court Changes to App Store Would Cause ‘Irreparable Harm’
AppWizard
September 26, 2025

Google Tells Supreme Court Changes to App Store Would Cause ‘Irreparable Harm’

On September 24, Google requested the U.S. Supreme Court to pause a lower court's ruling that requires changes to its app store policies, citing concerns about "irreparable harm" to itself and the Android ecosystem. This ruling, stemming from an antitrust lawsuit by Epic Games, mandates that the Google Play store eliminate restrictions preventing developers from creating their own marketplaces and billing systems, with the order set to take effect on October 22. Epic Games argues that Google's practices monopolize app access and in-app payments on Android devices. A jury found in December 2023 that Google held a monopoly in the Android app distribution and payments market. A judge's ruling in October 2024 requires Google to implement policy changes, including prohibiting exclusive developer agreements, allowing developers to inform consumers about direct downloads, stopping mandatory use of its billing features, and granting rival app stores access to Google's catalog. Google's appeal against the ruling was unsuccessful, and the company expressed concerns about user safety and innovation in the Android ecosystem.
The battle for Google Chrome: Search.com raises the stakes to $35 Billion
AppWizard
August 14, 2025

The battle for Google Chrome: Search.com raises the stakes to $35 Billion

Search.com has made a bid of billion for Google Chrome, surpassing Perplexity's 0 million offer. If successful, Search.com plans to implement cashback, no ads, and revenue sharing. Google is facing antitrust challenges that could lead to the sale of Chrome. Search.com’s bid is backed by JP Morgan, while Perplexity's backers remain undisclosed. Other companies, including Yahoo, OpenAI, and Apollo Global Management, have also shown interest in acquiring Chrome. The outcome of the ongoing antitrust lawsuit against Google may influence the future of Chrome.
channelnews : Epic Settles Samsung Antitrust Case Over Android App Store Restrictions
AppWizard
July 9, 2025

channelnews : Epic Settles Samsung Antitrust Case Over Android App Store Restrictions

Epic Games has settled its antitrust lawsuit against Samsung Electronics, dismissing allegations of collusion with Google to restrict rival app marketplaces on Android devices. The lawsuit, initiated in September, accused Samsung of working with Google to maintain its market dominance, particularly through Samsung's Auto Blocker feature, which was designed to prevent malicious software but also hindered downloads from competing app stores. The settlement removes Samsung from the broader antitrust case, leaving Google as the sole defendant on remaining claims. Both companies deny wrongdoing, with Google calling the lawsuit "meritless." The settlement comes ahead of Samsung's new Galaxy phone announcements and does not disclose specific terms. Epic's ongoing challenges with its mobile app store highlight the difficulties faced by alternative marketplace operators.
Google Forces Gemini App Integration on Android, Sparking Widespread Privacy Fears
AppWizard
July 9, 2025

Google Forces Gemini App Integration on Android, Sparking Widespread Privacy Fears

Google is rolling out an update to its Android operating system that allows its Gemini AI to access third-party applications by default, overriding users' previous privacy settings. This change, effective July 8, has led to confusion among users, as many received unclear email notifications regarding the update and how to disable the new feature. Google has stated that human reviewers may process app data, and conversations could be stored for up to 72 hours, even if users opt out of activity tracking. The update is part of Google's strategy to integrate Gemini more deeply into its ecosystem, replacing the Google Assistant with Gemini on mobile devices. The company plans to open its Gemini Nano model to third-party developers, further embedding AI into applications.
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