Google Ordered to Simplify Rival App Store Installation on Android
Google was back in court today, facing Judge James Donato over its handling of rival app stores on Android. Epic Games, which had a significant role in exposing Google's alleged monopoly on Android app distribution, argued that the tech giant still makes it too difficult for users to install third-party app stores.
The issue has been ongoing since 2021, when a jury decided that Google had an illegal monopoly over Android apps. Judge Donato ordered Google to allow rival app stores inside its own Google Play Store and provide them with full access to the platform's catalog of apps. However, Epic argued that this decision has not been fully implemented.
During the court hearing, Epic showed a live demo of how difficult it is for users to install third-party app stores on Android. Judge Donato was particularly concerned about the steps required to install these stores and deemed them 'anticompetitive friction.' He ordered Google to remove unnecessary steps and make the process easier.
Specifically, Judge Donato asked Google to change its search results so that users searching for terms like 'store for apps' or 'app store' can easily find third-party app stores. He also instructed Google to remove a warning page that asks users if they are looking for an app store when they search for one.
The judge wants these changes implemented within a week, telling Google to 'have it done by a week from today.' If there's any problem with this deadline, Judge Donato instructed Google to let him know.