Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, described Google’s proposed antitrust settlement with the Fortnite developer as a “thorough solution” that “truly reinforces” Android’s commitment to being an open platform.
On Tuesday, the two companies reached an agreement in which Google will implement changes to its Android app store, such as reducing fees and fostering greater competition.
According to the new arrangement, which still awaits judicial approval, Google will permit Android app developers to direct users to other payment options both within their apps and via external links. Additionally, Google’s fees for developers will be limited to either 9% or 20%, based on the nature of the transaction.
Sameer Samat, who leads the Android Ecosystem at Google, stated on X that the proposed updates are “centered on increasing developer options and flexibility, reducing costs, and promoting greater competition, all while maintaining user safety.” If the court approves, this agreement would resolve the antitrust lawsuit.
Sweeney commended the plan, calling it “fantastic,” and compared it to Apple’s approach, which he criticized for “blocking all rival stores and restricting competition to payment methods alone.”
Apple maintains that its rules are intended to safeguard users and uphold App Store security. Nevertheless, the company recently announced record earnings from its Services division, which includes the App Store—revenue for this segment climbed 15% year-over-year to $28.75 billion last quarter.
Epic Games had filed lawsuits against both Google and Apple, claiming their app store models were anti-competitive, gave them excessive control, imposed high fees, and prioritized their own payment systems. While Apple mostly prevailed in its case against Epic, it was required to adjust its App Store guidelines to permit alternative payment methods. In contrast, Google lost its appeal in July after a jury determined it had suppressed competition and needed to implement reforms.
Following the legal victory, Sweeney revealed that the Epic Games Store for Android would soon be available on the Google Play Store.
