Google has officially filed an appeal against a recent court ruling that requires it to allow third-party app stores like Epic Games on the Google Play platform. This decision, made by Judge James Donato, comes after a legal battle between Google and Epic Games, forcing the tech giant to make changes to allow competition.
These changes include removing the requirement for apps to use Google’s billing system and allowing third-party stores to distribute apps. Google is required to implement these changes by November 1, 2024, and they will remain in effect for three years until 2027.
In a blog post, Google’s Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, expressed concerns about the ruling, stating that these changes could jeopardise user privacy and security. Mulholland emphasised that the requirements would complicate app promotion for developers and ultimately harm competition among device manufacturers. “While these changes might satisfy Epic, they could lead to a host of unintended consequences that would negatively impact American consumers and developers,” she said.
The ruling has already prompted responses from major players in the gaming industry. Epic Games announced its plans to launch the Epic Games Store on Google Play in 2025, allowing Android users access to its popular games. Meanwhile, Microsoft revealed plans to let users purchase and play games directly through its Xbox Android app starting next month.
As the appeal unfolds, the outcome could change how apps are distributed on Android, potentially opening doors for more competition and choices for consumers and developers alike.