How Google vs. Epic’s Settlement Could Change the Android App Store Forever

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Google has reached a landmark settlement with Epic Games, leading to major changes that will impact developers, consumers, and the Android app ecosystem. On this week’s Tech News Weekly, Ars Technica’s Ryan Whitwam joined Mikah Sargent to break down what the agreement means—including lower Play Store fees, easier third-party app store access, and what users should expect going forward.

What Does the Google vs. Epic Settlement Mean?

Google has agreed to cut some of the Play Store’s developer fees and streamline how apps and app stores are distributed on Android devices. This stems from a multiyear legal battle initiated by Epic Games, which challenged Google’s requirements for in-app purchase fees and its control over app distribution.

As Ryan Whitwam explained, while not all original court-mandated changes will go into effect, Google is still making substantial concessions that will affect Android users and app developers worldwide—potentially making the Android app experience less restrictive, less expensive, and more competitive.

Why Did Epic Games Sue Google?

Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, began the legal standoff in 2020 by introducing an option to bypass Google’s official payment methods inside its Android Fortnite app. This sidestepped the 30% fee Google and Apple typically demanded for in-app purchases.

Once Epic added this direct-payment workaround, both Apple and Google pulled Fortnite from their app stores. Both companies faced separate lawsuits from Epic, but the outcomes diverged: Apple largely won its case, while Google lost and was forced to consider significant changes to its Play Store operations.

What Changes Did Google Agree To?

Lower Play Store Fees for Developers

According to Ryan Whitwam, Google will reduce the maximum Play Store fee from 30% to either 20% or 9%, depending on the app’s revenue model. For example:

• 20% fee: For most standard in-app purchases.
• 9% fee: For non-essential/game cosmetic purchases or “premium” one-time app sales.

This shift means developers may keep more of their earnings, potentially translating to better prices or increased investment in app improvements for users.

Certified Third-Party App Stores: Easier Installation

A major barrier for app alternatives on Android has been the discouraging security prompts users must click through when sideloading apps or installing third-party app stores. Under the new settlement:

• Google will certify third-party app stores, allowing them to more easily distribute apps without intimidating warning screens.
• Certified app stores will function closer to the Play Store experience, making them less confusing or “scary” for average users.
• Exact processes for certification and fees have yet to be released but cannot be tied to the store’s revenue.

Alternatives for In-App Purchases

Developers will be able to direct users to their own payment platforms, sometimes offering products at lower prices outside Google’s billing system. However, Google may still require them to maintain Play Store billing as an option.

Will These Changes Be Global or Just in the U.S.?

According to Ryan Whitwam, this settlement will apply worldwide, not just in the United States. This consistency will reduce headaches for developers needing to comply with conflicting rules across different countries.

When Will These Changes Happen?

The systems required to enforce these changes must be built into new versions of Android. Google says not to expect them before the next major Android update, likely in 2026.

Could There Be Any Downsides?

Opening Android to easier app store alternatives introduces new challenges. As Ryan Whitwam noted, Google must now certify external stores, which increases the risk of malware or poor-quality apps if those stores aren’t properly vetted. Google will need controls to revoke certification and ensure safety, but the general consensus is that increased competition and lower fees outweigh these risks for most users and developers.

Key Takeaways

• Play Store fees are dropping to 20% or 9% for many developers, down from the traditional 30%.
• Certified third-party app stores can be installed more easily, with fewer warnings and friction for users.
• Developers will have more freedom to direct users to their own payment platforms, potentially offering better prices.
• Settlement covers all markets globally, providing a more consistent Android experience.
• Users can expect these changes to roll out with the next major Android version—not immediately.
• Safety concerns remain, as easier app store access could open the door to more risk if Google isn’t vigilant in the certification process.
• Epic Games gets what it wanted: more direct revenue from its apps and a more open Android ecosystem.

The Bottom Line

The Google vs. Epic settlement marks the start of a less restrictive, more competitive Android ecosystem. Developers will pay lower fees and users will gain access to alternative app stores more easily—creating new opportunities and potential savings for millions. However, users and developers should remain vigilant as the landscape evolves, especially around safety and privacy concerns.

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