Embrace the Change: Third-Party Android App Stores Set to Shake Up the Market

In a recent development, Epic Games and Google have jointly decided to withdraw their attempt to retroactively settle the lawsuit that is reshaping the landscape of Android app stores in the United States. This decision has significant implications, as Google will now be required to accommodate rival app stores within its own platform. Google has informed the court that it is prepared to start carrying third-party app stores on Wednesday, July 22nd. This move raises the question of whether Microsoft will seize the opportunity to launch an Xbox game store on Android.

However, Judge James Donato expressed skepticism about abandoning the original permanent injunction in favor of Google’s proposed “Registered App Stores.” These stores would require users to sideload them, rather than allowing direct downloads through Google Play. A court hearing was scheduled for Thursday, July 16th, to further discuss this matter, but it may no longer be necessary following the withdrawal.

Google spokesperson Dan Jackson provided the following statement regarding the withdrawal of proposed modifications:

“We’ve agreed with Epic to withdraw our motion to modify the US Court’s injunction rather than prolonging this process which creates uncertainty for the ecosystem. This allows us to focus on executing our recently announced global business model evolution to deliver greater app store choice, lower prices, and more opportunities for developers and users. We remain committed to maintaining Android’s industry-leading security and fostering a competitive ecosystem where every app store and developer has the freedom to compete. In parallel, we continue to comply with the US Court’s injunction.”

Google had previously announced its plan to launch the Registered App Store program globally, starting with the new version of Android later this year. This approach indicates that there will be two different tracks for Android: stores-within-a-store in the US and Registered App Stores elsewhere.

It remains unclear whether there will be a specific program for third-party app stores within the Google Play Store, or if companies will simply submit them like any other app. The court’s permanent injunction allows for the distribution of third-party Android app distribution platforms or stores through the Google Play Store, without mandating proactive invitation.

For access to the Google Play catalog of apps, Google will impose an annual fee of $5,000 on stores for security and policy reviews. Additional requirements include limiting app distribution to the US, welcoming all eligible third-party developers, maintaining clear and non-discriminatory trust and safety policies, and ensuring that no more than 1 percent of install attempts result in malware.