Google vs Epic Games dispute ends as 'registered' Android app stores, lower fees roll out this year
The long-standing Google vs Epic Games dispute has finally come to an end, with Google today announcing significant changes to Android that include enhanced support for third-party app stores and revised Google Play policies.
In a detailed blog post (https://android-developers.googleblog.com/2026/03/a-new-era-for-choice-and-openness.html) and on Twitter/X (http://x.com/ssamat/status/2029250000467968059), Google outlined three major changes to Android, its approach to app store support, and the impact of fees on the Play Store.
Enhanced Billing Choice for Developers: Google is giving Android developers more freedom in billing options. Developers can now use Google Play billing alongside their own billing systems, including linking to external websites. This move aims to offer developers more control over transactions while ensuring user safety.
Expanding Support for Third-Party App Stores: Google is introducing a program for 'sideloading qualified app stores'. This new installation flow will indicate if a third-party app store has been registered with Android, detailing its capabilities and linking to relevant terms of service, privacy policies, and customer support. This change will make it easier for users to install third-party app stores, provided they register with Google.
Revised Google Play Fees: Google is implementing a new fee structure for Google Play. A 5% fee will apply for Play Billing in the US, UK, and the European Economic Area, while Service Fees will range from 10-20% depending on the purchase. This includes:
1. A 5% billing rate for developers using Google Play’s billing system in the EEA, UK, and US.
2. A 20% service fee for in-app purchases (IAP) from existing installs and 15% for new app installs.
3. A 10% service fee for recurring subscriptions.
These fee changes will be rolled out in stages, starting on June 30 in the US, UK, and EEA, September 30 in Australia, December 31 in Korea and Japan, and September 30, 2027, for the rest of the world.
Registered App Stores and Android 17: 'Registered App Stores' will be introduced with a major Android release by the end of the year, Android 17 or a maintenance release, bringing a new era of choice and openness to Android users.
