Google has achieved a crucial win in its legal dispute with Epic Games regarding the company’s app store policies. Recently, Google petitioned Judge James Donato to delay a November 1st deadline requiring significant changes to its Android app store. Judge Donato responded favorably, issuing a temporary administrative stay on most aspects of his ruling, which allows Google to hold off on implementing the major modifications while it appeals the court’s decision.
This temporary stay is vital for Google, as it suggests that the company may not need to alter its Play Store practices for an extended period. In December, a jury unanimously found that Google’s Play Store operates as an illegal monopoly, leading the company to appeal both the jury’s verdict and the subsequent court order. Judge Donato’s recent ruling gives Google a brief respite, enabling it to maintain its existing practices while the appeals process progresses, although he did not extend the stay indefinitely.
Notably, one part of Judge Donato’s ruling will still take effect: starting November 1, 2024, Google cannot enter agreements with device manufacturers or carriers that block rival app stores from being preinstalled on devices in exchange for monetary incentives. This stipulation could pave the way for the introduction of competing app stores, potentially reshaping how users access and download applications on Android devices in the years to come.
Initially, Judge Donato imposed a tight timeline for Google to start making changes to its app store, providing the company with less than a month to comply. Google argued for a more extended period similar to the 90 days Apple received for its adjustments. With the judge’s original deadline lifted, Google now has the opportunity to delay significant changes to its platform, potentially following a path similar to Apple’s approach in response to its own legal challenges.
Reactions from both companies reflect their differing perspectives on the stay’s implications. Google expressed satisfaction with the decision, emphasizing concerns about the security of user experiences and the potential disruption to the ecosystem that benefits millions of developers and users.
Conversely, Epic criticized the ruling as a mere procedural step and accused Google of employing fear tactics to maintain its dominance over the Android ecosystem. The case remains unresolved as the Ninth Circuit prepares to review the appeal and decide whether to grant a longer stay.
