Epic Games’ Tim Sweeney is applauding Google’s proposed antitrust settlement, calling it a comprehensive solution that doubles down on Android’s promise as an open platform. The agreement, which still needs a judge’s approval, would overhaul how Android’s app ecosystem works by lowering fees and opening the door to more competition.
Under the proposal, Android developers could direct users to alternative payment methods both within their apps and through external links. Google would also cap the fees it can charge at either 9% or 20%, depending on the type of transaction. Sameer Samat, who oversees the Android ecosystem at Google, said the changes are designed to expand developer choice and flexibility, reduce fees, and encourage competition while keeping users safe. If approved, the deal would close the ongoing antitrust litigation between the companies.
Sweeney praised the plan as “awesome” and contrasted it with Apple’s approach, which he criticized for blocking competing stores and limiting competition primarily to payments. Apple maintains that its policies prioritize consumer protection and App Store security, and it recently reported record Services revenue, with the segment rising 15% to $28.75 billion in the latest quarter.
Epic Games had taken both companies to court, arguing that their app store rules were anti-competitive, that fees were too high, and that in-house payment systems were unfairly favored. Apple largely prevailed in its case but was required to adjust its App Store rules to permit alternative payment options. Google, meanwhile, lost its appeal in July after a jury found the company had stifled competition and needed to make changes.
Riding the momentum from that win, Sweeney said the Epic Games Store for Android will launch on the Google Play Store. For developers and gamers, the proposed reforms could mark a pivotal shift toward greater freedom in app distribution and payment choice on Android.
