9to5Google article
Google is opening the floodgates to third-party app stores on Android next week
https://9to5google.com/2026/07/15/google-play-store-third-party-android-app-store-changes-july/
Content partially translated by Gemini 3.5 Flash and edited.
The last hurdle in the long-running lawsuit between Google and Epic Games has been cleared, paving the way for third-party app stores on Android starting July 22nd.
Early in the lawsuit, one of Epic's initial demands was that Google allow third-party app stores on Android more smoothly and even list those stores within the Google Play Store. Google had been fighting this, but has now decided to drop its legal battle.
According to The Verge, Google has withdrawn its request to modify a preliminary injunction order in court, which would have exempted it from allowing third-party store listings.
In the US, this move will allow third-party app stores to bring apps and games listed on the Play Store to their own storefronts. Developers can opt out of this, but if they don't, their apps and games will be distributed under the same conditions as those on the Play Store.
[Korean announcement link]
Starting July 22nd, 2026, Google Play developer registration information for apps and games in the US will be provided to third-party US Android app stores.
https://support.google.com/googleplay/android-developer/answer/17187609?hl=ko
All measures will begin on July 22nd, about a week from now. Third-party stores will have to pay an annual access fee of $5,000 per Play Store app to cover "security and policy review" costs.
This measure applies only to the US. Third-party stores must have a "clear, non-discriminatory" trust and safety policy, be open to all qualified developers, and not distribute apps outside of the US. Additionally, the percentage of installation attempts containing malware must be less than 1% (to limit its use as a malware distribution channel).
https://x.com/9to5Google/status/2077532468781986017
