Running an app ecosystem has gotten a lot more complex for Google in the wake of its loss in the Epic Games antitrust case. While those in the US have access to app stores inside Google Play by order of the court, international users will have Google’s voluntary Registered App Stores program. Google has announced that stores wishing to be part of that program are now free to apply, and support will roll out to some Android devices later this year.
App stores accepted into the program will enjoy preferential treatment on the Android platform. Users of approved stores will be able to install apps with a single click, similar to the experience in the Play Store. These stores will also be allowed to update apps silently in the background like Google’s store does.
“In March, we announced the Registered App Stores program to give third-party app stores a more streamlined way to reach users while maintaining the safety and security of the Android ecosystem,” said a Google spokesperson. “Eligible app stores outside the US can now apply to register their stores ahead of the new simplified installation experience rolling out to users later this year.”
The Android Registered App Stores program was initially Google’s backup plan. After losing its appeal of Judge James Donato’s verdict, Google was faced with a number of remedies, like allowing third-party billing and sharing app catalogs with rival stores. The most dramatic shift was the court’s requirement that Google distribute third-party stores within Google Play.
Google and Epic, having patched things up following the trial, attempted to settle the case in a way that gave Google more control. Registered App Stores were intended as a replacement for hosting the stores in Google Play, provided they could adhere to a baseline level of trust and safety. Google intended to use this program in the US and internationally, but the companies withdrew the settlement when the court signaled it would not be approved.
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