Google is contesting Epic Games’ requested remedies in a California courtroom after being accused of operating the Play Store as an illegal monopoly. Google argues that implementing the changes Epic is demanding would be too costly and could pose new security risks for Android users. The company presented a filing objecting to Epic’s requests, highlighting the estimated cost of up to $137 million to make the necessary alterations. Google also emphasized that complying with the demands could harm its brands and the viability of the Android ecosystem.
The objections from Google primarily focus on three key requests from Epic. First, Epic wants third-party app stores to access Google Play’s catalog, which Google believes would give those stores an unfair advantage without contributing to the catalog themselves. Second, Epic is pushing for library portability, allowing users to transfer app ownership between Google Play and third-party stores, a feature Google believes is already adequately addressed in Android 14. Third, Epic is requesting that Google Play distribute third-party app stores, a move Google argues would be costly and pose security risks to users.
The legal battle between Epic and Google has been ongoing since a jury ruled Google Play as an illegal monopoly. Despite the ruling, the two companies have yet to come to an agreement on the proposed measures. Epic has until July 24 to respond to Google’s objections. In the past, Epic has accused Google of anticompetitive practices and aims to open up Android devices to more competition and choice for developers and consumers.
Notably, Epic is also engaged in a similar antitrust case against Apple, which was decided in 2021. While Epic mostly lost that case, the court ruled in favor of Epic regarding allowing developers to link to third-party payment sources for in-app purchases on Apple’s platform. However, ongoing disputes over compliance with the court order have led to additional court hearings between Apple and Epic.
The legal conflicts between tech giants like Google, Apple, and companies like Epic underscore the growing scrutiny over app store monopolies and anticompetitive behavior in the tech industry. As these cases continue to unfold, the outcomes could have significant implications for the future of app distribution and competition in the digital marketplace.
Article Source
https://www.theregister.com/AMP/2024/06/26/google_begs_court_for_relief/
