third-party stores Archives

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

Android 17 Retrofits Alternative App Store Installs

Android 17 will introduce a system for "Registered App Stores," allowing third-party app stores that meet Google's certification standards to benefit from a unified installation interface. Users will see a straightforward prompt when installing a certified app store, with clear explanations and links to essential information. Certified stores will automatically gain permission to install and manage other applications, simplifying the installation process and improving user experience. The initiative will reduce barriers imposed by OEMs, ensuring a consistent installation process across devices. Security measures will remain intact, with Google Play Protect continuing to scan apps from all sources. The new system will be integrated into Android 17, with potential support in the initial release or by Android 17 QPR2. Competing app stores will not be able to promote themselves through Google Play, but users can still access certain titles directly through their respective apps.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

Google’s Android Identity Check: Fortifying Apps Against Malware in 2026

Google has introduced a developer verification program that will require all app creators to undergo identity checks by 2026 to combat malware and scams in the Android ecosystem. Developers must register through the Android Developer Console or Play Console, submitting government-issued identification and possibly paying a registration fee. The program will feature both free and paid tiers, with a focus on enhancing security while maintaining Android's open nature. Only applications from verified developers will be allowed on certified Android devices by 2026, starting in high-risk markets. The initiative aims to reduce malicious applications while ensuring that verified developers' identities are not publicly listed. Concerns have been raised about potential overreach and barriers for smaller developers, but supporters view it as a positive step toward improved security.

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 6, 2025

Google and Epic’s new settlement could change the Play Store globally

- Google and Epic Games are proposing a new settlement to address antitrust concerns related to the Play Store. - The settlement would have a global scope and last for six and a half years. - The agreement includes new developer fee caps for those bypassing Google Play Billing. - The settlement aims to streamline the process for installing third-party app stores on Android devices. - The proposal will be presented to Judge Donato for approval, potentially resolving a significant legal challenge for Google's Android business.

BetaBeacon

November 6, 2025

Google and Epic Games reach settlement in Google Play case, ask court to approve Android changes

Google and Epic Games have reached an agreement in their antitrust dispute, proposing new rules for Android and Google Play. The plan allows developers to accept payments through their own systems within apps, sets maximum fees for transactions, and establishes fair criteria for third-party app store access. The agreement aims to provide developers with more options and lower fees while ensuring user safety. The proposed changes will primarily apply to new app installations.

BetaBeacon

November 5, 2025

Epic Games praises Google’s Android antitrust settlement boosting app store competition | Ukraine news

Google and Epic Games have reached an antitrust settlement in the Fortnite case, with Google agreeing to reforms in the Android Store including lower commissions and increased competition. The settlement allows Android app developers to inform users about alternative payment methods and limits the commission Google can charge to either 9% or 20%. The focus is on expanding developers' choice and flexibility, reducing fees, and promoting competition while prioritizing user safety. Epic Games had also filed a lawsuit against Google and Apple for alleged anti-competitive behavior, with Apple recently reporting record profits from its services business. Following the settlement, the Epic Games Store for Android will be available on the Google Play Store, potentially reshaping the mobile market and gaming ecosystem.

BetaBeacon

November 5, 2025

Epic Games CEO Praises Google Android Antitrust Deal

- The proposed Android antitrust settlement would allow developers to direct users to alternative payment methods with capped service fees of either 9% or 20%, a departure from the current 30% rate. - Epic Games is celebrating the deal as it addresses concerns about inflated prices for consumers and stifled competition. - The settlement aims to formalize "user choice billing" and anti-steering relief at platform scale. - Apple has pushed back against similar policies, arguing they are necessary for security and privacy. - The settlement could benefit developers with lower service fees and allow for more transparent pricing for consumers. - The changes come after a jury verdict found Google's app store practices anticompetitive, and Google hopes to end a contentious chapter while preserving the reach of Android.

BetaBeacon

November 5, 2025

Google and Epic strike a deal that could open up Android to third-party stores

Google and Epic Games have reached a deal that will allow third-party app stores to operate on Android devices worldwide.

AppWizard

November 5, 2025

Google settlement with Epic caps Play Store fees, boosts other Android app stores

Google will integrate a new system in the upcoming version of Android that allows third-party app stores to be recognized as legitimate sources for applications. These "Registered App Stores" will enable users to install apps directly from websites with a single click, streamlining the process and avoiding traditional sideloading warnings. The implementation will be global, not limited to the U.S., and is expected to provide a user-friendly experience similar to the Google Play Store. Google will set "reasonable requirements" for the certification of these app stores, which may include review processes and fees not tied to revenue generation. The changes aim to benefit third-party app stores, reduce fees for developers, and expedite the app installation process. The settlement is expected to be presented for approval soon, with potential operational changes by the end of this year and a rollout coinciding with Android 17 in June next year. Early glimpses of the new system may be available in Google's Android Canary and Beta releases as early as 2026.

AppWizard

November 5, 2025

Epic vs Google ends: Fortnite-maker and Google settle five-year long court battle with lower fees, and opening Android to rival app stores – The Times of India

Google and Epic Games have settled their antitrust dispute, leading to changes in the Android app ecosystem, including lower fees and improved access to rival app stores until 2032. Google will reduce service fees to 20% for in-app purchases that provide gameplay advantages and 9% for those that do not, allowing developers to direct customers to alternative payment systems without incurring fees. Additionally, Android will enable users to install competing app stores with a simple prompt, addressing barriers that previously hindered such installations. The settlement is pending review by US District Judge James Donato.