Google has just two weeks to make significant changes to its app store policy in an effort to comply with a court ruling in favor of Epic Games. The company admitted in an emergency filing that it must start dismantling its alleged illegal monopoly within 14 days.
The changes required by the court include stopping Google from forcing apps to use Google Play Billing, allowing developers to steer their users to other platforms, and limiting the perks offered in exchange for preinstalled apps. However, rival app stores may not be included in the Google Play Store until at least 2026.
Google has requested an emergency stay from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, citing concerns about the potential risks to its users and developers if the changes are implemented too quickly. The court has granted this stay, pushing back the deadline to change Android app store policy to at least three weeks.
The required changes include:
– Letting developers link to external app downloads
– Allowing developers to set their own prices
– Stopping Google from sharing revenue with carriers and app developers in exchange for exclusivity
– Working with Epic to resolve disputes
Google’s arguments suggest that these changes could expose users and developers to malware, attacks, or less secure payments. However, the company believes the benefits outweigh the risks.
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals had previously denied Google’s motion for a stay but granted an emergency stay this time, allowing the company more time to argue for a longer stay as the case is considered by a higher court.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/717440/google-epic-open-play-store-emergency-stay