While Google has said that it will be seeking a stay, Monday’s ruling marks the culmination of a four year-long antitrust fight between the Fortnite maker and the big tech company. It also means that Google could face genuine competition in the Android app marketplace for the first time, at least in the US.
What does Google have to do now?
From November 1, 2024 to November 1, 2027, Google has been ordered to let apps use their own billing systems for in-app payment purchases instead of being forced to use only Google Play Billing. Previously, the jury had found that Google had violated the law by tying its payment system to the app store.
The court also ordered Google to remove the anti-steering provisions in its policy, which restricts app developers from linking to external payment options as well as informing users about it. Additionally, Google has to let app developers inform users about the availability and pricing of their apps outside the Play Store, and the company cannot stop them from providing users with a link to download the app outside the Play Store (also known as sideloading).
What is Google not allowed to do anymore?
To stop Google from maintaining its dominance in the app distribution market, the court has prohibited the company from offering app developers money or perks to exclusively launch their apps on the Play Store.
It is also not allowed to share app revenue “with any person or entity that distributes Android apps” or plans to launch an app store or app platform.
Notably, Google is no longer allowed to ink deals with smartphone manufacturers like Samsung for the Play Store app to be pre-installed on Android devices. Furthermore, the company cannot offer money to device makers or carriers so that they don’t pre-install third-party app stores on their devices.
During the hearings, Epic Games had argued that Google entered into agreements with various app developers, smartphone manufacturers, and carriers that made it impossible for rival app stores to compete. The jury was also convinced that “Google entered into one or more agreements that unreasonably restrained trade in a relevant antitrust market” including “agreements with OEMs [original equipment manufacturers] that sell mobile devices.”
The pro-competition changes to the Play Store have to be in place for three years, though Epic had initially sought a six-year period. Dismissing Epic’s argument, the judge said, “The provisions are designed to level the playing field for the entry and growth of rivals, without burdening Google excessively.” Source: The Indian Express