Google Ends Its 30% App Store Fee, Welcomes Third-Party App Stores

Source: Slashdot

Background

Google is eliminating its traditional 30 % Play Store fee and introducing lower commissions, while also allowing alternative billing systems and making it easier for third‑party app stores to operate on Android. The changes stem largely from Google’s settlement with Epic Games.

New Fee Structure

• In‑app purchases: The standard 30 % cut is reduced to 20 %, and to 15 % for new installs of apps from developers participating in the App Experience program or the updated Google Play Games Level Up program.
• Subscriptions: The fee is lowered to 10 %.
• Billing system fees: Developers in the UK, US, or European Economic Area (EEA) will be charged a 5 % fee plus a market‑specific rate in other regions.

Source: Engadget report

Alternative Billing and Third‑Party App Stores

• Developers can offer alternative billing systems alongside Google Play’s billing or direct users to external websites for purchases.
• Third‑party app stores may apply to Google’s new “Registered App Stores” program. If they meet quality and safety benchmarks, they gain access to a streamlined installation interface in Android. Participation is optional; users can still sideload stores that are not part of the program.

Details on the settlement with Epic Games: Slashdot article

Rollout Timeline

The Registered App Stores program is slated to launch with a major Android release before the end of the year, initially rolling out in select regions before reaching the US.

Official announcement: Google Android Developers Blog