Google Loses Major Lawsuit to Epic Games in Android Monopoly Case

Epic Games Wins Major Victory in Google Monopoly Case

Epic Games has secured a major win in its ongoing lawsuit against Google, with a US judge ruling that the tech giant operates an illegal monopoly through its smartphone app store. Google has been ordered to make changes to its Google Play Store, allowing third-party storefront apps, such as the Epic Games Store, to be available in the US next year.

Required Changes to Google Play Store

Some of the required changes include allowing users to pay via alternate means, rather than just Google Play Billing. These changes will be implemented for at least the next three years. Google has argued that the verdict should be reviewed, as it appears to contradict the ruling of Epic’s less-successful Apple trial. Google also claims that it exists in competition to Apple, and therefore does not have a monopoly.

Google’s Response to the Verdict

In response to the verdict, Google has stated that it will appeal the decision and request a pause on the required changes. The company claims that this is necessary to maintain a consistent and safe experience for users and developers. Google has also pointed out that Android is already “open” and allows side-loading and downloading of the Epic Games Store.

Epic Games’ Reaction

Epic Games boss Tim Sweeney has reacted to the verdict, stating that Google has announced it will appeal. Sweeney also highlighted that Epic Games’ fight has been to streamline the process of getting to the Epic Games Store, which currently requires a fiddly process.

Future Implications

This victory for Epic Games may have significant implications for the tech industry, as it could lead to changes in the way app stores operate. Epic Games has already launched a fresh lawsuit against Google and Samsung, alleging that they have made the process of downloading the Epic Game Store on Android phones more difficult.