Google and Epic drop fight, clearing path for rival Android app stores

Google and Epic Games have withdrawn their joint request to modify a court injunction, clearing the path for rival Android app stores to launch on Google Play as early as next week. The move ends a legal dispute that had delayed the implementation of changes ordered by a federal judge in the Epic v. Google antitrust case.

The development directly affects Android users and developers, who will soon have access to third-party app stores through Google Play. This change stems from a December 2023 ruling that found Google’s app store practices violated antitrust laws. Epic Games, which sued Google over its Play Store policies, had sought to force Google to allow competing stores.

The decision matters because it reshapes the Android app ecosystem, potentially lowering fees and increasing competition. Google had previously resisted allowing rival stores, arguing it would compromise security. The withdrawal of the injunction modification request means the original court order stands, requiring Google to enable third-party app stores by November 1, 2024.

According to the source, the joint withdrawal was filed on October 25, 2024, with both parties agreeing to abandon their competing requests. The judge had taken a “proactive” approach to oversight, according to MLex, but the exact reasons for the withdrawal were not detailed in the source.

Background: The Epic v. Google case began in 2020 when Epic accused Google of monopolistic practices. A jury found Google liable in December 2023, and Judge James Donato issued an injunction in October 2024 requiring Google to allow third-party app stores for three years. Google had appealed, but the withdrawal now clears the way for implementation.

Next steps: Third-party app stores are expected to appear on Google Play starting next week, as previously announced by Google. Epic has indicated it will launch its own store, though the source does not specify a date. The broader implications include potential changes to Google’s revenue model and increased choice for Android users.