The legal dispute between Google and Epic Games, which has been going on since 2020, ended with a victory for the latter, which will change the functioning of the Android operating system. From now on, Android users will be given more freedom in choosing stores to download games and applications, about what informs edition of The Verge.
A California court ordered Google to allow Android users to download third-party app stores directly through Google Play for three years. In addition, the company should ensure that users are informed about alternative payment methods and provide direct links to download applications from other platforms.
- Other important commitments for Google include:
- Adding alternative payment methods outside of Google Play.
- Stop providing rewards or discounts to developers for the exclusive presence of their apps on Google Play.
- Allow developers to distribute their apps through other app stores.
- Giving developers the freedom to set app prices independently of the Play Billing system.
These changes will take effect in the US on November 1, 2024 and will last until November 1, 2027. The court believes that a three-year period will be sufficient to stimulate competition in the market, while Google retains control over the security of the platform and can set a fee for compliance with the new requirements.
Google has already announced its intention to appeal the decision. Company representatives argue that the court ignored the fact that Google and Apple are actively competing for both users and developers. They also emphasized that Android users have always had the ability to download apps outside of Google Play.
