Epic Games and Google have withdrawn their attempt to settle a lawsuit that affects the operation of Android app stores in the United States. As a result, Google will be required to allow rival app stores within its own platform. Google has indicated to the court that it is prepared to start implementing third-party app stores on July 22, 2026. This follows a ruling by Judge James Donato in October 2024, which mandated that Google must carry competing app stores and share its app catalog with them.
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Epic Games and Google Withdraw Lawsuit Over Android App Stores
Epic Games and Google have jointly withdrawn their lawsuit regarding the operation of Android app stores, leading to Google's obligation to support rival app stores. Google plans to begin this implementation on July 22, 2026, following a previous court ruling.
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Google and Epic give up fighting — third-party Android app stores are coming next week
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Epic Games and Google Withdraw Lawsuit Over Android App Stores