US Supreme Court Denies Google’s Request for Stay in Epic Games Lawsuit
On October 6, 2025, the US Supreme Court denied Google’s request for a stay on a court ruling that requires the company to alter its payment practices on the Google Play Store, reports 24brussels.
This decision means Google has less than three weeks to comply with a permanent injunction issued by a lower court following a lawsuit filed by Epic Games. The court order mandates that Google must cease its requirement for app developers to use its proprietary billing system and allow them to inform users about alternative payment options within the Google Play ecosystem.
In detail, Google must adhere to several key requirements by October 22, 2025. These provisions include permitting developers to offer different payment methods, allowing them to link to external app download sources, enabling them to set their own pricing, and stopping any financial arrangements that favor Google Play exclusivity. This injunction is viewed as a significant moment in the ongoing battle over app store policies, highlighting the increasing scrutiny tech giants face over their control of app distribution and payment systems.
Epic Games has emphasized that the deadline for Google to comply is crucial. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney stated, “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!”
Google has not confirmed its specific plans regarding the implementation of these changes while it continues to pursue its appeal. A spokesperson for the company remarked that it intends to meet its legal obligations. Dan Jackson, Google’s representative, stated, “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. While we’re disappointed the order isn’t stayed, we will continue our appeal.”
As the situation develops, it remains uncertain if Epic will engage with Google on the court-mandated Joint Technical Committee, which aims to facilitate the inclusion of rival app stores in the Google Play environment without compromising user safety. Google’s appeal to the Supreme Court for certiorari is anticipated by October 27, 2025, but this timeline would exceed the compliance deadline set by the district court.
Judge James Donato, who originally issued the injunction, has scheduled a court session on October 30, 2025, to assess compliance efforts from both parties.
Despite the looming deadline, there is a possibility that the Supreme Court might still consider Google’s appeal after the stipulated deadline has passed.
