Epic’s court filing challenges Google’s App Store practices

Epic Games, maker of “Fortnite,” has advised a federal judge in California to compel Google to open up its Play Store to greater competition after a jury found the U.S. tech firm had used its power as a gatekeeper for apps on the Android mobile platform.

In a recent court filing addressed to U.S. District Judge James Donato in San Francisco, Epic Games made several requests aimed at challenging Google’s app store policies. 

Among these requests, Epic seeks to compel the Google Play Store to permit the distribution of competing third-party app stores for a period of six years. 

Additionally, Epic aims to limit Google’s ability to enter agreements with device manufacturers that restrict the preloading of competing app stores.

Antitrust Trial Background

Judge Donato presided over a significant antitrust trial that concluded with a jury verdict against Google, which is owned by Alphabet, in December. 

The trial centered around allegations of Google unlawfully hindering developers’ ability to distribute their apps outside of the Play Store and exerting tight control over in-app transaction payments.

Epic’s Proposed Injunction

Epic’s proposed injunction also calls for preventing Google from restricting how apps can inform users about out-of-app purchasing options. This move is part of Epic’s ongoing legal battle with Google over app store practices. 

While Donato is not obligated to grant Epic’s proposal, the filing sets the stage for further legal proceedings regarding Google’s control over app developers and consumers.

Also read: META INTRODUCES NUDITY PROTECTION FEATURE FOR INSTAGRAM

Google’s Response and Prior Actions

Google has defended its app store practices, denying any wrongdoing. The company faces a May 3 deadline to respond to Epic’s proposal. Epic’s lawsuit against Google did not seek monetary damages. 

Meanwhile, Google separately agreed in December to a $700 million settlement to address state and consumer allegations regarding Play Store restrictions. 

As part of this settlement, Google has expanded options for app and game developers to offer alternative billing methods for in-app purchases.

Ownership Structure of Epic Games

Epic Games, headquartered in North Carolina, is privately held. Tencent, a Chinese conglomerate, holds a 40% stake in the company, while Walt Disney holds approximately 9% as of February.

The legal proceedings between Epic Games and Google underscore broader debates surrounding competition and control within the digital marketplace, particularly regarding app distribution and payment processing.