Users will be able to download third-party app stores from the Google Play Store

An American court has declared Google Play an illegal monopoly and has mandated the company to allow the distribution of third-party stores and provide them access to the full catalog of apps on Google Play. This ruling, initiated by Epic, will take effect on November 1, 2024, and will last until November 1, 2027.

The court ordered Google to:

1. Cease the requirement for developers to use Google Play Billing for apps distributed on the Play Store.
2. Allow Android developers to inform users about alternative payment options.
3. Permit developers to include links for downloading their apps from sources outside of the Play Store.
4. Enable developers to set their own prices for apps, independent of Google Play’s pricing structure.

Google is also prohibited from:

1. Sharing revenue from apps with any person or organization that distributes Android apps or plans to launch an app store or platform.
2. Offering developers money or bonuses to launch their apps exclusively on the Play Store or as a priority.
3. Providing developers money or bonuses to refrain from launching their apps in competing stores.
4. Offering device manufacturers or operators money or bonuses for pre-installing the Play Store.
5. Providing device manufacturers or operators money or incentives not to pre-install competing stores.

Google retains the authority to implement "reasonable measures" to protect user security.

While Epic did not receive all of its requested conditions, the court's decision marks an important step in the fight against Google's monopoly. The company plans to appeal, arguing that the changes could negatively impact consumers and developers. Meanwhile, Epic celebrates its partial victory in this case.