Google Play policy: Ends 30% fee, allows third-party app stores/billing; new fee structure with 20%/25% install-based rates; third-party stores inside Play starting July 22
Key Questions
When will third-party app stores appear inside Google Play?
Google will begin allowing third-party app stores inside the Play Store starting July 22 under an opt-out model with a $5k fee for developers. This change stems from the Epic settlement and related court remedies.
What fee changes is Google implementing for app developers?
Google is ending its standard 30% fee and introducing tiered rates including 20% for new installs and 25% for existing installs on non-recurring transactions, plus lower rates for alternative billing. External or webshop IAPs will carry a 20% fee for new users and 10% for subscriptions.
How does the Epic settlement affect Android users and developers?
The $700M US states settlement locks in alternative payments for five years and sideloading for seven years while requiring refunds. Fortnite has been relisted, and US developers can add external Android payment links starting October 2025.
Google ends 30% Play fee for lower commissions/third-party stores/billing (Epic settlement); $700M US states settlement locks alt payments 5yrs/sideloading 7yrs + refunds; service-fee ~5% separation, external/webshop IAP 20% new/10% subs; US devs external Android links Oct '25; Fortnite relisted. I/O 2026: Play Billing 9.0 and Universal Cart. Google officially rolling out alternative payments and tiered service fees starting June 30 across UK, EEA, US – decoupled model with variable rates (12-27% GPB, lower alt-billing platform fee). New details: 20% fee for new installs, 25% for existing installs on non-recurring transactions; optional Games Level Up Program. Major new development: Google Play will open to third-party app stores inside its own storefront starting July 22 – opt-out model, $5k fee. Google and Epic withdraw retroactive settlement attempt, original injunction stands. This is a massive shift in Android app distribution, opening new channels for DTC and alternative stores.