Google Lowers Play Store Fees and Opens Android to Alternative Billing and App Stores

Google announced major changes to its Play Store policies following a legal settlement with Epic Games. The company will lower in-app purchase fees, reduce commissions to 10-20%, and introduce a 5% payment processing fee option. Developers can use alternative billing systems and direct users to external websites for purchases. Google will also allow certified third-party app stores on Android devices, initially outside the U.S., pending court approval. These updates aim to increase competition and address antitrust concerns from Epic's 2020 lawsuit.