The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denied Google’s request for a rehearing in the Epic v. Google case, compelling the tech giant to comply with a permanent injunction that mandates significant changes to its Android app store practices, reports 24brussels.
Following this ruling, Google must allow developers to bypass its Google Play Billing system and link to external app downloads within 30 days. The ruling also requires Google to integrate rival app stores within its platform and share its full pool of applications by summer 2026, unless the U.S. Supreme Court intervenes.
Previously, on July 31, 2025, a Ninth Circuit panel upheld a jury’s unanimous verdict from 2023, which identified Google’s app store and payment systems as illegal monopolies. Google sought a full court review of the ruling, anticipating a more favorable outcome from the Supreme Court.
However, the Ninth Circuit rebuffed Google’s efforts, restarting the compliance timeline and requiring the company to begin necessary adjustments. Google has faced firm deadlines, including a new 30-day requirement to cease coercing developers to utilize its billing platform, and to permit links to external download options.
Among the key stipulations, Google must allow developers to disclose alternative payment options, dictate their pricing, and establish collaboration with Epic Games to facilitate the integration of competing app stores. These measures aim to foster a more equitable marketplace for app developers.
The Ninth Circuit’s original injunction includes prohibitions on sharing revenue with potential rival app distribution entities and restricts Google from making access to its services contingent upon exclusivity agreements.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney reacted positively to the ruling, emphasizing that this outcome provides developers in the U.S. the ability to explore competing payment options without undue restrictions or hidden fees. The future compliance actions by Google remain to be confirmed, and their stance on a possible Supreme Court appeal is still pending.
As the situation evolves, further developments are anticipated regarding compliance measures and potential appeals. The Ninth Circuit’s decision marks a significant shift in how the Google Play ecosystem may operate moving forward.
