Google Ordered to Open Platform for Third-Party App Store

In a landmark ruling, a judge has instructed Google to open its platform to third-party app stores, allowing users the option to pay using alternatives to Google’s payment methods. This significant decision stems from a lawsuit initiated by Epic Games, which has broader implications for the tech ecosystem. The judgment is expected to resonate across the industry, potentially influencing how other tech giants, including Apple, operate. While Apple faced a similar lawsuit that resulted in a compromise—allowing users to purchase apps outside of its services—it is not required to support third-party stores in the U.S., unlike Google, which must now adjust its practices in the European Union. This ruling is poised to alter the operational landscape for app developers and platform owners, hinting at a bigger shift towards more diversified marketplaces and user payment options.