Android’s getting a flexible new approach to sideloading with Registered App Stores

Source: Android Authority

TL;DR

• Google has detailed changes coming out of its settlement with Epic.
• Android’s app fee structure is changing, and Google is introducing a new Registered App Store program.
• The settlement hasn’t been approved by a court yet.

Background

Google has been involved in a lawsuit brought by Fortnite developer and publisher Epic Games since 2020. The two parties jointly proposed a settlement late last year — see the original report here. Today, Google announced it is moving forward with several of the proposed changes over the next few months.

New Fee Structure

In a blog post, Google explained a new fee structure for Android developers that separates service fees from Google Play billing fees. The key points are:

• Service fee: 15 %–20 % of revenue.
• Google Play billing fee (US, Europe, UK): an additional 5 % for developers who use Google Play billing.
• In‑app subscription fee: reduced to 10 % from 15 % (the extra 5 % billing fee means the net effect is similar for most developers).

These changes will take effect in the US, UK, and Europe by the end of June, with a worldwide rollout by September 30, 2027.

Registered App Store Program

Google is introducing a Registered App Stores program that will:

• Provide a new UI for installing third‑party app stores that meet Google’s quality and safety benchmarks.
• Be optional for participating stores; those that do not sign up will retain the current installation flow.
• Launch outside the US first, with plans to bring it stateside once the settlement is approved by the court.
• Arrive as part of a major Android release later this year.

Settlement Status and Timeline

Epic’s lawsuit alleges that Google abused its position to monopolize app distribution via the Play Store. Although the settlement has not yet received court approval, Google is proceeding with the rollout timeline:

• Billing structure: US, UK, Europe by end of June 2026; worldwide by September 30 2027.
• Registered App Store program: Initial rollout outside the US, with a US launch pending court approval, bundled with a major Android release in 2026.