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Srinivasa Reddy Kandi: Google Cuts Play Store Fees to 20% in Global Settlement with Epic Games

March, 05, 2026-03:31

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Google Cuts Play Store Fees to 20% in Global Settlement with Epic Games:

Google has announced major updates to its app marketplace policies after resolving its long-running legal dispute with Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite.

As part of the settlement, Google will reduce its standard Play Store commission from 30% to 20% on in-app purchases. Developers who opt to use Google’s billing system will pay an additional 5% fee. Subscription pricing will also change, with recurring subscriptions dropping to a 10% service fee.

The agreement clears the way for Fortnite to return to the Google Play Store worldwide. At the same time, Epic will continue expanding its own Android marketplace, the Epic Games Store.

Google is also introducing a new initiative called the Registered App Stores program. This optional program is designed to simplify the process for users who want to install alternative app stores outside of Google Play. Previously, sideloading apps involved prominent security warnings — a point of contention for Epic, which argued that legitimate third-party stores were being discouraged by these alerts.

Under the new framework, approved third-party app stores must meet specific quality and safety standards, but users will experience a smoother installation process. The program will roll out in international markets first, followed by the United States once court approval is finalized.

With these changes, Google says it has officially resolved its disputes with Epic Games worldwide, marking the end of a high-profile antitrust battle and signaling a shift in how Android app distribution may evolve moving forward.

Author: Kandi Srinivasa Reddy, Srinivasa Reddy Kandi, #KandiSrinivasaReddy, #SrinivasaReddyKandi