epicgames

Google’s attempt to overturn a jury verdict and federal court order in the Epic Games lawsuit hit a wall on Thursday. The U.S. appeals panel firmly rejected Google’s request to rescind the decision that mandates a major revamp of its app store, Google Play.
The San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a unanimous ruling dismissing Google’s claims that the trial judge made errors in the 2020 antitrust case, which was seen as favoring Epic Games.

Google warns the ruling could severely impact user safety ⚠️

This decision requires the Google Play Store to lift restrictions that have blocked developers from creating rival marketplaces and billing systems. Although the injunction was scheduled earlier, it was delayed after Google filed its appeal last year.
Judge Margaret McKeown, speaking for the panel, emphasized that antitrust remedies “can and often must prohibit otherwise lawful behavior” to stop ongoing anti-competitive practices. She also highlighted the court’s authority to demand Google address harm caused to its competitors, not just consumers.
Google argues the ruling risks undermining Android innovation and user protection. Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s VP for Regulatory Affairs, stated, “Protecting users and developers and ensuring a secure platform remains our top priority as we continue our appeal.”
Meanwhile, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney praised the ruling on X, noting it opens the door for the Epic Games Store to be offered via Google Play — a big win for developers and gamers alike. 🎮✨
Financial impact on Google remains unclear since Alphabet doesn’t break out app store revenue separately. However, Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Mandeep Singh warned last year that third-party billing adoption by media and gaming companies could cause a 20-30% dip in gross app store sales, potentially hitting profits by $1-$1.5 billion.

Epic’s legal battle heats up after Samsung settlement 📱

Weeks after settling its antitrust dispute with Samsung, Epic Games’ lawsuit against Google takes center stage. The Samsung case alleged collusion with Google to protect Google Play via Samsung’s Auto Blocker, which reportedly discouraged users from downloading apps outside Google Play and Samsung’s Galaxy Store.
Both Samsung and Google deny wrongdoing and have kept settlement terms confidential. Yet, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney expressed satisfaction with the ruling and said Samsung is addressing its concerns.
While this ruling is a major milestone, Google’s potential Supreme Court appeal could delay or alter the outcome. If upheld, the decision might reshape the Android app market by removing barriers for developers and expanding choices for users.

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