Google vs Epic Games dispute ends as ‘registered’ Android app stores, lower fees roll out this year
Source: 9to5Google
The long‑running Google vs Epic Games dispute has finally come to an end, with Google announcing new changes to Android that include better support for third‑party app stores and updates to Google Play.
Detailed in a blog post and by Android Ecosystem President Sameer Samat on Twitter/X, Google is making three major changes to Android, app‑store support, and Play Store fees.
Billing choice
Developers will be able to use Google Play Billing alongside their own billing systems, including linking to external websites. Google says:
Google Play is giving developers even more billing choice and freedom in how they handle transactions. Mobile developers will have the option to use their own billing systems in their app alongside Google Play’s billing, or they can guide users outside of their app to their own websites for purchases. Our goal is to offer this flexibility in a way that maximizes choice and safety for users.
Support for third‑party app stores
Google is rolling out a program for “sideloading qualified app stores.” A new installation flow will indicate whether a third‑party store has been registered with Android, show what the store can do, and link to its terms of service, privacy policy, and customer support.
- Stores that register can use the new flow, making installation easier.
- Stores that opt out can still be sideloaded, but will face the same restrictions that exist today.
The rollout will begin outside the United States, with plans to bring it to the U.S. pending court approval.
New Google Play fee structure
- Billing fee: 5 % for Play Billing in the US, UK, and the European Economic Area (EEA).
- Service fees:
- 20 % for new installs (first‑time installs after the fee change).
- 15 % for transactions from new installs for developers participating in the Apps Experience Program or the revamped Google Play Games Level Up program.
- 20 % for transactions from existing installs for participating developers.
- 10 % for recurring subscriptions.
These fee changes will start rolling out on June 30 in the US, UK, and EEA, in Australia by September 30, in Korea and Japan by December 31, and to the rest of the world by September 30 2027.
“Registered App Stores” will arrive with a major Android release by the end of the year (Android 17 or a maintenance release).