Epic Games and Google have jointly submitted a proposed modified injunction in the ongoing Epic v. Google litigation, aiming to expand developer choice, reduce Play Store fees, and open Android to third-party app stores and alternative payment options.
If approved, this proposal would implement changes ordered by the courts following Epic’s August 2025 antitrust victory over Google, potentially resolving the dispute in the U.S.
Key Statements from Google and Epic
Google’s Android Ecosystem President Sameer Samat described the proposal as focusing on expanding developer choice and flexibility, “lowering fees” and “encouraging more competition” while keeping users safe.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney added that it “doubles down on Android’s original vision” by streamlining competing store installs globally, reducing service fees, and enabling “third-party in-app and web payments.”
Sweeney noted that the proposal contrasts with Apple’s walled-garden model, which restricts competing stores and limits competition primarily to payment systems.
Key Points of the Proposed Modified Injunction
- Scope and Duration: Applies in the U.S. for three years from the effective date, covering Google and affiliated entities.
- Developer Flexibility: Google cannot tie payments, revenue share, or access to its services to app launches exclusively on Google Play. Developers can freely choose any Android app store in the U.S.
- Third-Party App Stores: Google cannot block OEMs or carriers from preinstalling third-party stores and must allow direct downloads from developer websites. A “Registered App Store” certification process will facilitate easier installations.
- Alternative Payment Options: From December 3, 2025, developers may provide alternative payment methods alongside Google Play Billing. Google can charge limited service fees but cannot use transaction data for ad targeting.
- Service Fees: For new installs from Google Play after October 30, 2025, in-game purchases with gameplay impact face a max 20% service fee, while non-game apps, subscriptions, and cosmetic items are capped at 9%.
- Technical Oversight: A three-person Technical Committee, jointly selected by Epic and Google, will review disputes over technology and implementation.
- Court Retention: The court retains jurisdiction over the injunction and can modify it for good cause.
Implications
If approved, the proposal would cement the antitrust ruling’s impact: developers gain more choice in app distribution and payment methods, users could see alternative payment options and app stores directly on Android devices, and Google faces a potential reduction in Play Store revenue.
Next Steps
The modified injunction will be discussed before the court on Thursday. Approval would replace the previous injunction from October 2024 and implement the changes required by the Ninth Circuit ruling, potentially ending the high-profile dispute between Epic and Google in the U.S.