mobile app distribution

AppWizard
February 23, 2025
Amazon will close its Amazon Appstore for Android devices on August 20, 2025, after 14 years of operation. The closure includes the discontinuation of Amazon Coins, which are used for in-app purchases. Developers will no longer be able to submit new apps after this date, although existing apps will remain available until then. Amazon plans to focus on its Appstore for its own devices, such as Fire TV and Fire Tablets, where most of its customers engage with the platform. The Appstore was launched in 2011 as a competitor to Google Play but struggled to gain traction outside of Amazon's ecosystem. Additionally, Amazon will discontinue support for the Appstore on Windows 11 on March 5, 2025. Security concerns have also been raised regarding the Appstore, including incidents of malware found within it.
AppWizard
October 8, 2024
A US judge has ruled that Google must allow third-party app stores and alternative in-app payment methods on Android devices, effective November 1, 2024. This decision requires Google to end its exclusive control over app distribution and prohibits it from blocking third-party app stores or charging preinstallation fees to device manufacturers. Following this ruling, Alphabet's shares fell by 2.5%, indicating concerns over potential revenue losses, as Google's Play Store has historically generated significant income through fees on app developers. Epic Games plans to launch its own app store by 2025, which could change the competitive landscape. Google intends to appeal the ruling and has warned about possible negative impacts on consumer privacy and security. The ruling may lead to significant changes in the Android app market, allowing for more flexibility in app downloads and in-app purchases, but also raises concerns about privacy and user experience consistency.
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