An appeals court dismissed Google's appeal in the Epic Games case, which may lead to significant changes in the Google Play Store.
Court Ruling
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously rejected Google’s claims that the trial judge made legal errors in the 2020 antitrust case against Epic Games. The court ruled that Google must remove restrictions that prevent app developers from setting up rival marketplaces and billing systems.
Google's User Safety Concerns
Google expressed concerns that the ruling could significantly harm user safety and undermine innovation on the Android platform. Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google's Vice President for Regulatory Affairs, stated, "Our top priority remains protecting our users and developers, and ensuring a secure platform as we continue our appeal."
Implications for Epic Games and the App Market
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney praised the ruling, stating it would allow the company to offer its Epic Game Store via Google Play. This development may reduce Google’s app store revenues, especially with increased use of third-party billing systems by media companies.
The appeals court ruling on the Epic Games case against Google could reshape the Android app market by reducing barriers for developers and increasing consumer choice. However, a potential appeal to the Supreme Court by Google may delay or alter the final outcomes.
