Android could soon be a very different place.

The neat part of this is that they're requiring Google to give up their library of apps to other stores and won't allow them to buy up exclusives for at least 3 years. I suspect we will see a lot of scam app stores really soon, though.

  • penquin@lemm.ee
    ·
    3 months ago

    Starting November 1st, 2024, and ending November 1st, 2027, Google must also:

    Stop requiring Google Play Billing for apps distributed on the Google Play Store (the jury found that Google had illegally tied its payment system to its app store)
Let Android developers tell users about other ways to pay from within the Play Store
Let Android developers link to ways to download their apps outside of the Play Store
Let Android developers set their own prices for apps irrespective of Play Billing

    Google also can’t:

    Share app revenue “with any person or entity that distributes Android apps” or plans to launch an app store or app platform
Offer developers money or perks to launch their apps on the Play Store exclusively or first
Offer developers money or perks not to launch their apps on rival stores
Offer device makers or carriers money or perks to preinstall the Play Store
Offer device makers or carriers money or perks not to preinstall rival stores

    Damn, wouldn't this just disincentivize Google from doing anything anymore? This is basically making them not make any money from their app store. Not that I really give a shit, but I want understand it better.

    Edit: is this also gonna come to apple, too? Or has it already happened to them?

    • SuperZutsuki [they/them]
      ·
      3 months ago

      Apparently, Apple is only required to allow third-party stores in the EU. Hopefully only a matter of time before a similar case forces their hand in the US.

      • penquin@lemm.ee
        ·
        3 months ago

        God damnit, Epic. Take Tim to court, too, for fuck's sake. I want to get an iPhone, but I can't live without sideloading apps.