Google Faces 14-Day Deadline to Open Android After Epic Court Win

Google is facing a critical moment in its ongoing battle with Epic Games. Following Epic’s antitrust victory, the tech giant has just 14 days to start dismantling key aspects of its Android app store practices unless a court grants it additional time. This ruling could reshape the Android ecosystem, changing how developers, phone manufacturers, and carriers interact with Google Play. For users, it raises a big question: will alternative app stores finally become a reality on Android?

Google Must Adjust Android App Store Practices

The court’s order requires Google to make significant changes to its Play Store policies. It can no longer force developers to exclusively use Google Play Billing, nor can it restrict apps from directing users to other payment platforms. Additionally, Google must scale back the incentives it offers manufacturers for preinstalling its apps. These immediate adjustments are aimed at reducing Google’s control over the Android marketplace and opening the door for more developer freedom.

Epic’s Win Signals a Shift for Android Developers

While these changes are significant, they do not yet include Epic’s biggest demands. Google will not immediately be required to host rival app stores within Google Play or share its full app catalog with competitors. This means that the Epic Games Store, Microsoft’s Xbox store, and other potential rivals may not appear on Android devices right away. However, the court’s permanent injunction gives Google eight months to create a secure system for hosting third-party stores, meaning major changes are still on the horizon.

What This Means for Android Users and the Future of App Stores

For everyday users, the short-term impact may be subtle, but the long-term implications are huge. If Google ultimately opens Android to third-party app stores, users could see more competition, better pricing, and new app experiences. Still, the process will be gradual. Even with the court’s ruling, rival app stores likely won’t appear in Google Play until 2026, assuming Google’s appeals and safety measures move forward as planned.