Google Wins Temporary Stay on Play Store Overhaul in Epic Games Antitrust Case

A federal judge has delayed the order requiring Google to open its Android app store to more competition, pending an appeals court decision.

Judge James Donato granted Google's request to pause the implementation of changes to its Play Store, originally set for November 1, 2024.
The delay allows the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to consider Google's appeal against the antitrust ruling.
Epic Games had accused Google of monopolizing app downloads and payment methods on Android devices.
The court order would have required Google to permit third-party app platforms and alternative payment methods on its Play Store.
Google argues that the mandated changes pose security and privacy risks, while Epic claims Google's appeal is meritless.