The latest sticking point in the long-running lawsuit between Google and Epic Games is coming to an end, as Google will open the door to third-party app stores on Android starting July 22.
At the beginning of the Epic Games lawsuit, one of the initial demands was that Google not only better allow third-party app stores on Android, but also home those app stores within the Play Store. Google has fought against that, but is now giving up the fight.
The edge reports that Google has abandoned its fight to change the court order, which would have eliminated this requirement to host third-party stores. In a statement to the court, Google says:
We have agreed with Epic to withdraw our motion to modify the US Court’s injunction rather than prolong this process that creates uncertainty for the ecosystem. This allows us to focus on executing our recently announced Evolution of the global business model to offer greater app store options, lower prices and more opportunities for developers and users. We remain committed to maintaining Android’s industry-leading security and fostering a competitive ecosystem where every app store and developer has the freedom to compete. At the same time, we continue to comply with the United States court order.
In the United States, this includes the ability for third-party app stores to host Play Store listings for apps and games. Developers can opt out of this, but apps and games will be distributed on the same terms as the Play Store.
Google explains:
Starting with July 22, 2026Your US app and game listings, including the name of your apps and games, their icons, their description, and any screenshots and videos you have provided to Google Play, will be available to third-party Android app stores in the US (this is to comply with a US court. order.) Third-party Android app stores in the US will be able to offer these apps to users, and the download of these apps will be completed through Google Play on the same terms as any other downloads made directly through the Google Play store. The Google Play service fee will continue to apply to applications downloaded this way.
This will all begin on July 22, about a week from now, with third-party stores demanding a $5,000 annual access fee for Play Store apps to cover “policy and security reviews.” This is also unique to the US, with third-party stores requiring “clear and non-discriminatory” trust and security policies, being open to all eligible developers, not distributing apps outside of the US, and that less than 1% of all “install attempts” include malware (i.e. limiting malware).
More about Android:
Follow Ben: Twitter/X, Rags, blue skyand instagram
FTC: We use automatic affiliate links that generate income. Further.
