A United States federal judge has ordered Google to let rival technology companies put their Android apps on the Google Play store for three years, starting next month.
This ruling is part of a case brought by Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, which accused Google of limiting competition by controlling how apps are distributed and paid for on Android devices.
Judge James Donato issued the order, which is meant to open the app store to more competition. Google, however, said it will appeal the decision and ask for a delay in implementing the changes. In a statement, Google argued, “The changes would put consumers’ privacy and security at risk, make it harder for developers to promote their apps, and reduce competition on devices.”
The ruling follows a December jury decision that supported Epic Games’ claims that Google was stifling competitors. Epic’s legal battle with Google is part of a larger push to challenge the dominance of big tech companies in the app market.
This case is one of several recent legal challenges against Google. In August, another judge ruled against the company in a case involving its dominance in online search. Google is also facing legal battles over its control of the advertising technology market.
