Boost Your App’s Visibility: Pay $2–4 Per Install to Link from Google’s App Store

Google faced a deadline today to disclose its compliance with Judge James Donato’s order regarding Android and app store regulations in the US. The company was required to allow third-party app stores, separate Google Play Billing from its app store, and permit developers to link to non-Play Store downloads.

However, Google has updated its support pages, setting a deadline of January 28th for developers to enroll in specific Google programs related to “alternative billing” and “external content links.” These programs will come with additional fees unless a settlement is reached.

Google plans to charge developers $2.85 for each app and $3.65 for each game installed via external links within 24 hours. Additionally, the company will take a percentage of in-app purchases and auto-renewing subscriptions.

Developers wanting to offer their billing solutions will receive a 5 percent discount compared to Google’s fees. Google’s fees will be capped at 10 percent for the first $1 million of earnings, easing the burden for smaller developers.

Judge James Donato’s response to Google’s fees remains to be seen, following a similar case involving Apple. Google justifies the fees as supporting its investments in Android and Play.

Despite the planned fees, Google is not currently collecting them. Epic has expressed opposition to these fees and plans to challenge them if implemented.

A proposed settlement between Google and Epic may alter the situation, offering lower fees and a more global application. However, Judge Donato has reservations about the settlement and has scheduled a hearing for January 22nd.

As the situation evolves, with ongoing legal developments, Google’s support pages are being monitored for updates. Copies of the current text are archived for reference.