Google and Epic Drop Fight – Third-Party Android App Stores Arrive Next Week

Epic Games and Google have jointly withdrawn their attempt to change the permanent injunction that forces Google to allow rival Android app stores within its own Google Play store. As a result, Google will be compelled to carry third-party app stores starting next week.

In October 2024, Judge James Donato ruled that Google had illegally monopolized Android app distribution and ordered the company to open its platform to competitors. Google had sought to modify this order by proposing a "Registered App Stores" program that would require users to sideload third-party stores instead of downloading them directly from Google Play. The judge was skeptical of this alternative.

Now, both parties have agreed to drop the proposal to avoid further litigation. Google spokesperson Dan Jackson stated: "We’ve agreed with Epic to withdraw our motion to modify the US Court’s injunction rather than prolonging this process which creates uncertainty for the ecosystem. This allows us to focus on executing our recently announced global business model evolution to deliver greater app store choice, lower prices, and more opportunities for developers and users."

Google is now informing US app developers that their app and game listings will automatically be provided to third-party app stores starting July 22, unless they opt out. The company has launched a dedicated page for its Play Catalog Access Program, where third-party stores can enroll.

To access Google’s app catalog, stores must pay an annual $5,000 fee for security and policy reviews. Additional requirements include: stores cannot distribute apps outside the US, must be open to all eligible third-party developers, have clear and non-discriminatory trust and safety policies, and ensure that no more than 1% of install attempts are malware.

This development could reshape Android app economics, potentially reducing fees and opening the Play Store to outside payments. However, the full impact on developers and users remains to be seen.