Google Play Opens Doors to Third-Party App Stores in US

Google's Play Store has opened its doors to third-party app stores in the U.S., following the outcome of Epic Games' lawsuit against the company. Aptoide Games, the first of these alternative stores, is now available for installation through the Google Play Store.

The change comes after Epic Games prevailed in its antitrust case against Google, which had agreed to settle with Epic and allow other app stores 'without friction and additional fees.' However, Judge James Donato intervened, ordering a more consumer-friendly approach that would provide seamless access to third-party app stores.

Google will launch a Registered App Store program worldwide later this year. These alternative stores install just like any other app, with no sideloading or warnings required. They get full access to the Google Play app and game catalog, which are delivered through Google Play and subject to Google fees.