Android users have reason to celebrate as a recent court battle between tech giant Google and Fortnite creator Epic Games may result in lower app prices. Epic has been locked in a legal battle with both Google and Apple for several years over the pricing policies on their app stores. Fortnite fought for the right to determine its own item prices on the in-game store, as both Google Play Store and the App Store require companies to use their payment systems, which often results in higher prices. However, a jury has now ruled that Google has turned its Google Play billing service into a monopoly, opening the door for potential price drops on the platform.
Google's monopoly on the Google Play billing service
Epic Games emerged victorious in the case against Google, with the jury finding that the tech giant had used its position to create a monopoly with its Google Play billing service. The court discovered that Google had secret distribution agreements and revenue-sharing models with prominent game and phone developers, which were designed to stifle competition on other app stores. These measures were allegedly implemented in response to Epic Games, indicating that Google specifically targeted the company with anti-competitive tactics.
Impact on Android users
While the exact implications for Android users remain unclear, if the appeal is denied, app prices on the Google Play Store could experience a significant drop. This could mean more affordable apps and in-app purchases for Android users. Google plans to appeal the verdict, asserting that they provide more choice and openness compared to other major mobile platforms. They also emphasized their competition with Apple and its App Store, as well as other app stores on Android devices and gaming consoles.
Epic Games hailed the decision as a win for app developers and consumers worldwide. They claimed that Google's app store practices are illegal and that the tech giant abuses its monopoly power to impose excessive fees, hinder competition, and impede innovation. The outcome of the appeal will determine the ultimate impact on Android users, but the ruling has the potential to reshape the app pricing landscape on the Google Play Store.
For more information on Epic Games, check out our Lego Fortnite review.
Written by Georgina Young on behalf of GLHF.
