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Epic Games Proposed Injunction Against Google Play
Epic Games has taken legal action against Google challenging the restrictions on third-party app distribution outside of the Google Play Store on Android devices. The basis of this action is Epic’s assertion that Google holds an illegal monopoly in the market for Android app distribution.
Details of Epic’s Proposal
In response to Google’s alleged anti-competitive practices, Epic Games has put forth a proposed injunction that aims to increase competition within the Android app ecosystem. This proposal calls for allowing third-party app stores to be distributed through Google Play Store for a period of six years. Additionally, it seeks to prevent Google from entering into agreements with device manufacturers that would inhibit the pre-loading of third-party app stores on Android devices. Epic argues that these measures would benefit both developers and users by reducing Google’s control over app distribution.
US District Court Judge James Donato will ultimately determine the terms of the injunction, and Google has until May 3 to respond to Epic’s filing. Despite agreeing to a $700 million settlement in response to a previous ruling in Epic’s favor, Google plans to appeal the verdict.
Potential Impacts of the Proposed Injunction
If Epic’s proposal is accepted, Google would be required to provide equal access to the Android operating system and platform features to all developers, not just those using Google Play. This would enable third-party app stores to manage app updates seamlessly, similar to how updates are handled through Google Play. Furthermore, developers would have the freedom to offer their own in-app purchasing options without being subject to additional fees imposed by Google.
Epic’s injunction also addresses the issue of direct communication between developers and consumers, asserting that developers should have the ability to link to external websites for purchases and promotions without restrictions from Google. The proposed anti-retaliation clause aims to safeguard Epic from any discriminatory treatment or obstacles imposed by Google.
Future Developments
Epic’s legal action against Google is part of a broader strategy to challenge the dominance of major app stores and promote a more competitive landscape. With Epic Games Store set to launch on iOS and Android platforms, Epic aims to create a game-focused, multiplatform app distribution platform that upholds fair terms for developers across various devices.
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