Google Epic settlement would reshape Android app stores and payments

Google and Epic Games jointly filed a proposed settlement on Tuesday in San Francisco federal court that would resolve Epic’s five year antitrust lawsuit and reshape how Android distributes apps and processes in‑app payments if approved by the judge. The filing, submitted in connection with Epic’s 2020 suit, outlines changes that would let users install third‑party app stores more easily, permit alternative payment options, and impose lower, tiered service fees on transactions. A hearing is scheduled for Thursday before U.S. District Judge James Donato.

Under the proposal the companies say Google would launch a Registered App Store program that lets rival stores register with Google and be presented to users as installable options within the Google Play interface. Those stores would be able to offer their own listings, updates and purchase systems, subject to updated security and safety requirements described in the filing. Developers would be allowed to direct users to alternative payment methods both inside apps and through external links, and Google would cap service fees on such Play Store distributed apps at either 9 percent or 20 percent depending on the transaction.