Google contraint à autoriser les magasins d’applications tiers sur Android : Epic gagne en justice

Google ordered to open up access to third-party app stores on Android devices

Last week, a new lawsuit was filed against Google and Samsung in the Northern District of California for restricting access to third-party app stores on Android devices. In a swift decision, the court ruled in favor of allowing third-party app stores to access the entire app catalog on Google’s Play Store.

This ruling comes almost a year after the court determined that Google has a monopoly in the Android app distribution market and in-app billing services.

What does this mean for Android users and developers?

Google is now required to make third-party app stores visible within the Play Store and allow them to operate freely. This will enable users to download alternative app stores, such as Epic’s Games Store, directly from Google Play without encountering any “unknown app” warnings.

Developers can now bypass Google Play’s billing system and inform users about alternative payment options. They will also have the freedom to link users to download options outside of the Play Store. Developers have the choice to opt out of these changes if they prefer.

Limitations and future developments

These changes will initially apply only in the US starting from November 1 for a duration of three years. Google will be allowed to implement security measures and charge a fee for its services, with disputes overseen by a technical committee appointed by Google and Epic.

The court ruling also prohibits Google from offering incentives to device manufacturers or carriers to prevent them from pre-installing third-party app stores. Google is also not allowed to interfere with developers launching apps on rival app stores.

Google has expressed its intention to appeal the court’s decision, so further developments are expected in this ongoing situation.

Source : www.gsmarena.com