Home News U.S. Court Orders Google to Open Play Store to Third-Party App Stores Starting November 2024

U.S. Court Orders Google to Open Play Store to Third-Party App Stores Starting November 2024

In a significant legal development, Google has been ordered to make major changes to its Play Store policies following a legal battle with Epic Games. Starting November 1, 2024, third-party app stores will be allowed on the Google Play Store, granting them the same access to apps unless developers opt out.

Legal Context and Epic Games’ Victory

The ruling, passed by Judge James Donato on October 7, 2024, comes after Epic Games filed an injunction against Google earlier this year. The court ruled that Google could no longer require developers to use its billing system or restrict links to alternative payment methods. Additionally, Android developers can now inform users about payment options and app downloads outside of the Play Store.

The Google Play Store injunction lasts for 3 years. This means all app developers, store makers, carriers, and manufacturers have 3 years to build a vibrant and competitive Android ecosystem with such critical mass that Google can't stop it.
— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) October 7, 2024

Key Changes in Play Store Policies

Third-Party Store Access: Google must allow rival app stores to operate within the Play Store.
Alternative Payments: Developers can now inform users about other payment options.
Incentives Blocked: Google is prohibited from offering incentives to developers for Play Store exclusivity.
Carrier Restrictions: Mobile carriers can now pre-install competing app stores on Android devices.

These changes will remain in effect for three years, until November 1, 2027.

Epic’s Partial Win and Google’s Appeal

While this ruling is seen as a win for Epic Games, not all of the company’s requests were granted. Epic’s demand for a one-click sideloading process was denied, and Google retains the right to implement security measures during the transition.

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, celebrated the decision as a victory but acknowledged that the global fight for open digital marketplaces will continue. Google, however, announced plans to appeal the decision, arguing that it threatens user privacy, security, and fair competition. Google also maintains that Android’s openness already provides a level of choice not seen on platforms like iOS.

What Comes Next?

With Google appealing the decision, the company is seeking a temporary pause on the court’s orders while the legal process continues. This ruling could significantly impact the mobile app market, especially for smaller competitors looking to break into the Android ecosystem.

As the legal battle continues, developers and users alike will be watching closely to see how this shift affects the broader app marketplace.

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Sai T.

Sai is a social media manager and senior web content creator who spends his days juggling game research, deadlines, and the usual existential crisis. When he isn’t crafting content that hopefully goes viral, he’s a dedicated single parent doing his best to navigate work life balance. And in the rare moments when free time actually appears, he’s usually found with his two dogs, who are fully convinced they’re the ones in charge.