A California judge has granted Google a temporary stay on an order requiring a significant overhaul of its Play Store, offering relief to the tech giant in its ongoing antitrust battle with Epic Games. The ruling allows Google to postpone restructuring its app store, delaying the implementation of remedies ordered by the court.
Google is appealing a court ruling that would force it to allow third-party app stores on its Play Store and eliminate the requirement for developers to use Google Play Billing. The company argues that the ruling poses significant security risks for Android users and could disrupt the Android ecosystem.
In a landmark ruling, Judge James Donato ordered Google to allow competing app stores and payment systems on its Play Store for the next three years. This victory for Epic Games could significantly impact Google’s mobile business and revenue. Google, however, is appealing the decision.
Following an antitrust verdict, Google has appealed the court’s decision to open its Play Store to third-party marketplaces. The tech giant also seeks to block Epic Games’ demands for competing app stores and payment system modifications, mirroring Apple’s tactics in a similar dispute. Google argues that Android is not a standalone market and faces direct competition from Apple’s iOS, emphasizing the platform’s role in expanding choice and affordability for users.
Security researchers have uncovered a significant threat to Android users: the Necro malware has infected over 11 million devices, spreading through popular apps like Wuta Camera and Max Browser. This malware generates revenue for attackers by secretly clicking on ads, potentially impacting phone performance. Google has removed the infected apps from the Play Store, but users are encouraged to scan their devices with a reliable antivirus for protection.
