Google to Host Rival App Stores

Starting July 22, US Android users can download third-party app stores directly from the Google Play Store. Through the new Play Catalog Access Program, these external stores can offer apps from Google’s own catalog. Google will still handle the actual downloads and continue to collect its standard service fees.

The move follows Google and Epic Games withdrawing their appeal of a 2024 court injunction, forcing Google to comply with the original, stricter mandate.