Google prepares to allow rival Android app stores in the US

Google is ready to begin carrying third-party Android app stores on U.S. devices July 22, a move that would give rival marketplaces access through Google’s own ecosystem instead of relying only on sideloading or separate preloads. Under Google Play’s updated policy, third-party U.S. app stores can sign up for the Play Catalog Access program starting that day, and developers can opt out by then if they do not want their app listings exposed.

The change lands after Google and Epic Games withdrew their latest attempt to retroactively settle the antitrust fight over Android app distribution and billing. The case began with Epic’s 2020 lawsuit, and a federal jury later found that Google had maintained an illegal monopoly in the Android app distribution market. U.S. District Judge James Donato then put approval of the settlement on hold and set a summer evidentiary hearing.

Google’s March 4 settlement proposal would have cut Play Store commissions to 20% on in-app purchases, with another 5% charge if developers used Google billing. It also would have created a Registered App Stores program meant to make alternative stores easier to install. Those changes would launch first outside the United States and then in the U.S. once approved. Epic called the proposal an “awesome proposal,” and said it would bring Fortnite back to the Google Play Store worldwide while Epic continues building the Epic Games Store for Android.

Android already gives consumers choice: most Android devices ship with two or more app stores preloaded, and Android 14 added features to help third-party stores work better and update apps more easily. Google says its safety systems are necessary to protect users from malware, fraud, hidden subscriptions and privacy invasions. In 2025, Play prevented over 1.75 million policy-violating apps from being published and banned more than 80,000 bad developer accounts.