Starting July 22, third‑party app stores in the US will be able to pull apps from Google Play’s catalog. Google’s Play Catalog Access Program, announced on its dedicated page, allows these stores to list developers’ apps in the catalog, while downloads still route through Play and Google’s service fees remain in effect. The move follows a court order stemming from Google’s prolonged battle with Epic Games.

In November 2025, Google and Epic reached a settlement, and in March they unveiled a “Registered App Stores” program that would have simplified installation for sideloaded apps. However, the parties withdrew that modified settlement on July 16, and Google is now proceeding with the new program. Third‑party stores must pay an upfront $5,000 security review fee, an annual $5,000 fee, and meet strict requirements, including targeting only US users.

Google also cut its commission on app purchases from 30 % to 10 % and opened Play to external billing, allowing developers to offer alternative payment options. The change aims to increase choice, lower prices, and broaden competition while maintaining Android’s security.