Google Settles with Epic Games, Reduces Play Store Commissions to 20%

Google has announced changes to the Play Store following a settlement with Fortnite creator Epic Games over antitrust issues. The tech company will reduce Play Store commissions to 20% for in-app purchases, with an additional 5% for those using Google’s billing system. A new program, Registered App Stores, will facilitate the installation of alternative app stores. This resolution allows Epic Games to reintroduce Fortnite to the Google Play Store globally while investing in its Epic Games Store for Android. The agreement includes a streamlined process for installing non-Play Store apps, addressing Epic’s concerns about sideloading warnings. Approved stores must meet quality and safety standards, with the program launching internationally before coming to the U.S. The Play Store commission structure will see fees decrease to 20% for new installs and 10% for subscriptions. An added 5% fee applies if using Google’s billing system, effective in the U.S. and EEA. New developer programs, such as the Apps Experience Program and an updated Google Play Games Level Up program, will encourage quality development with varying commission rates. These changes will roll out in the EEA, U.K., and U.S. by June 30, 2026. Australia will follow on September 30, with Korea and Japan by the end of the year, and worldwide by September 2027. Google aims to foster a stronger Android ecosystem with these updates. Epic Games supports the settlement, with CEO Tim Sweeney commending Google’s decision as a “better deal for all developers.” Meanwhile, Epic is engaged in a similar lawsuit with Apple, which has been forced to allow links to external payment options. This case is currently under appeal, with Apple recently winning a partial reversal.