Supreme Court Declines to Halt Ruling Against Google Play Store Practices

The US Supreme Court today declined to grant Google a stay in its legal battle with Epic Games, meaning the tech giant must comply with an injunction requiring changes to its Google Play Store policies by October 22nd, 2025.

The ruling allows developers to offer alternative payment methods within their apps and link to external download options without facing fees or restrictions from Google. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney celebrated the decision, stating, “Starting October 22, developers will be legally entitled to steer US Google Play users to out-of-app payments without fees, scare screens, and friction – same as Apple App Store users in the US!” This decision follows a similar ruling regarding Apple’s App Store, increasing pressure on both companies to open their ecosystems.

Google spokesperson Dan Jackson acknowledged the court’s decision, stating, “Android provides more choice for users and developers than any mobile OS, and the changes ordered by the US District Court will jeopardize users’ ability to safely download apps.” Jackson added that the company will comply with its legal obligations while continuing its appeal. The company intends to file a petition for certiorari with the Supreme Court by October 27th, 2025, though this will be after the compliance deadline. You can learn more about the ongoing antitrust concerns surrounding app stores here.

A hearing is scheduled for October 30th before Judge James Donato to discuss the implementation of the injunction, including the establishment of a Joint Technical Committee to address safety concerns related to apps available on rival app stores. This case has broader implications for the digital marketplace, potentially reshaping how app developers distribute their products and interact with consumers – see more about Epic Games’ legal battles.

Google maintains it will pursue a full appeal to the Supreme Court, despite the looming deadline.