Google settled with Epic, and Android will never be the same

The Epic Games lawsuit against Google has been going on for almost five years, and we finally have a result. Just one decision away from a total loss, Google settled with Epic earlier this week. Thanks to Google’s concessions, quite significant changes will be made to Android in the future. Let’s review them.

Easier access to rival app stores

For years, trying to install a third-party app store on Android, like the Epic Games Store, for example, hasn’t been the most intuitive process. Google has always maintained that this is for security reasons, but that it is also an obstacle to competition. This is finally changing.

As part of the settlement, Google agreed to implement changes in an upcoming version of Android 17 that will enable “Registered App Stores.” We don’t yet know exactly how this will work, but the bottom line is that these approved stores will be much easier to install. Instead of a winding journey through multiple settings menus and pop-ups, you should be able to download and install a third-party app store from its website with a single neutral prompt.

This new installation flow should also grant the App Store the necessary permissions to install apps without all the extra clicks currently present. Hopefully this will make alternative app stores more “native”, like the Play Store experience. It’s not just a US thing: the simplified installation process is about to be rolled out globally.

Google also agreed to stop blocking phone makers and carriers from pre-installing competing app stores or displaying them on your home screen. For three years they will not be able to offer incentives to prevent this. One thing we’re not sure about is the process of uninstalling these approved third-party stores.

Alternative payment options

As we already covered last month, there are also changes to the way you pay for things related to Android apps. Developers will be able to get around Google’s 15-30% cut through its mandatory Play billing system by offering alternative payment options.

Currently, it’s illegal to include options in apps that allow users to pay for things outside of Google’s Play billing system. The change will allow developers to communicate with you about prices outside of the Play Store. You will be able to see and tap these options, which may include external web links or different in-app systems. Since developers will be able to keep more of their revenue through these alternative methods, they could theoretically pass the savings on to you with lower prices for things like subscriptions and in-app purchases.

Google may still charge a “service fee” on transactions made through these alternative payment methods, but these fees will be capped much lower, at 9% or 20% depending on the type of purchase. This is a significant reduction that should still benefit you and the developers you support.

What about side loading?

If you’ve been following Android news, you’ve probably followed the drama around the upcoming sideloading changes. Starting in late 2026, Android will block the installation of apps created by unverified developers. Google claims this is aimed at stopping malware and scams, and insists that sideloading doesn’t go anywhere, but not everyone agrees with that. In fact, some accuse Google of blatant lying.

The Epic decision has not changed Google’s plans, but the hope is that the “Registered App Stores” system can improve the situation. These approved app stores can take on some of the burden of vetting developers, retaining the ability to find apps outside of the Play Store. If everything continues as planned, it will still be a net negative compared to the current system, but not as disastrous.

In the long run, this is a huge win for Android users. We get more choice, potentially lower prices, and a more open Android experience, which is what Android was always meant to be.

Source: The Verge, Android authority