Google is all set to allow third-party app stores on Android in the United States from July 22, marking one of the major changes to the Play Store since its launch. The move comes after the company decided to abandon its proposed settlement with Epic Games and comply with a federal court injunction. Thus, aiming to increase competition in Android app distribution.
The change introduces Google's new Play Catalog Access Program, which allows eligible third-party app stores to access the Play Store's app catalog. Developers' apps and games will automatically appear on participating third-party marketplaces unless they opt out.
This comes in response to the ongoing court case between Google and Epic Games. In 2024, a US federal court found that Google had unlawfully maintained monopoly power in Android app distribution and billing services. This meant that Google had to open its platform to competing app stores and distribution systems.
Google negotiated with Epic Games a settlement. The proposed settlement would have allowed smaller registered app store systems instead of permitting competing app stores within the Google Play Store. However, both parties have since abandoned the proposed settlement after concluding that court approval was unlikely.
Under the new program, eligible app store providers can join Google’s Play Catalog Access Program. Google will audit participating stores' adherence to policies and security standards and will levy an annual fee of $5,000 to conduct these audits.
As far as developers are concerned, the transition will largely be automated. Developers’ listings on the Play Store will automatically be made accessible to third-party stores unless they opt out.
The changes currently apply only to the US, where the court injunction is in force. Google will continue using its existing Play Store model in other markets unless local regulations require similar reforms.
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