A U.S. judge has ordered Google to make significant changes to its mobile app business, following a lawsuit filed by Epic Games, the maker of “Fortnite.” The ruling will give Android users more choices when it comes to downloading apps and paying for in-app transactions. U.S. District Judge James Donato’s injunction requires Google to open its Play Store to greater competition by allowing apps from rival platforms and permitting third-party payment systems.
The ruling restricts Google from pre-installing its Play Store on devices and from sharing revenue with other app distributors. Google plans to appeal the decision, arguing the changes could harm consumers and developers. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney hailed the ruling as a victory for competition and announced plans to bring other app stores to Google Play by 2025.
The changes will go into effect on November 1, 2024, giving Google time to comply. The ruling stems from a 2020 lawsuit accusing Google of monopolizing app distribution and payments on Android devices. Alphabet’s shares fell 2.5% following the news.