Epic Games has announced that Fortnite will once again be available on Android and the Google Play Store globally. This follows a settlement of disputes between Epic and Google, including in key markets such as the U.S., Australia, and the U.K.
Google's New Billing Model
Google is implementing significant changes to its billing practices. It will now allow app developers to use their own payment systems, with in-app purchase billing rates as low as 5% in certain regions. This move is part of a broader effort to transform Android into a more open platform, fostering competition among app stores.
The new business model separates billing rates from service fees. In the European Economic Area, the U.K., and the U.S., the billing rate for Google Play will be 5%. Service fees will be adjusted to 20% for new installs, with existing installs seeing a 20% rate on transactions, and new installs at 15%. Recurring subscriptions will incur a 10% charge.
Epic's Strategic Plans
Epic Games plans to invest in the Epic Games Store for Android, aiming to serve both developers and gamers more effectively. The company stated that these changes will enhance the Android ecosystem by providing more developer choice and reducing costs.
Google is also launching a Registered App Stores program to facilitate easier sideloading of qualified app stores. This initiative will start outside the U.S. and may expand to the U.S. pending court approval.
Rollout Timeline
The new billing and service fee structure will be rolled out by June 30 in the EEA, the U.K., and the U.S.; by September 30 in Australia; by December 31 in Korea and Japan; and by September 30, 2027, for the rest of the world. Google plans to introduce Registered App Stores with a major Android release by the end of the year.
These updates are expected to resolve ongoing disputes with Epic Games and support a more robust Android ecosystem.
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