- Effective November 1st, 2024, Google is prohibited from blocking rival app stores’ preinstallation through agreements with carriers or manufacturers
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Tech giant Google has temporarily halted legal proceedings in the ongoing dispute with Epic Games regarding Android App Store regulations.
As reported by The Verge, Judge James Donato has delayed the implementation of Google’s November 1st deadline until an appeal can be considered at a later date.
Despite the temporary halt, Judge Donato has upheld a portion of his ruling. As of November 1st, 2024, Google is no longer allowed to prevent rival app stores from being preinstalled through agreements with carriers or manufacturers.
The original ruling also included provisions allowing developers to opt out of Google Play Billing and restraining Google from offering financial incentives to developers, requiring Google to support third-party app stores within its Play Store.
Epic Games denounces Google’s appeal
“We are pleased with the District Court’s decision to temporarily suspend the implementation of drastic measures demanded by Epic, while the Court of Appeal considers our request for further postponement during the appeal,” Google informed The Verge.
“These measures pose a threat to Google Play’s ability to provide a secure and safe user experience, and we are committed to making our case to protect 100 million U.S. Android users, over 500,000 U.S. developers, and numerous partners who have benefitted from our platforms.”
Epic also issued a statement stating: “Today, the Court has made it clear that Google’s appeal is without merit and has rejected their plea to delay the introduction of competition to Android devices while the appeal is ongoing.”
The creators of Fortnite argue that Google is using “fear tactics” and baseless security concerns to maintain dominance over Android devices and continue imposing high fees.
