Google Play to Allow Third-Party App Stores
Google and Epic Games have agreed to withdraw a legal motion, accelerating a change that will allow third-party app stores to be distributed natively via the Google Play Store starting next week. The decision replaces an earlier plan for a 'Registered App Stores' programme and is expected to speed the arrival of the Epic Games Store and other alternative stores (Samsung’s Galaxy Store, AltStore, Skich, and potentially an Xbox app store) on Play. Google said the move lets it focus on executing its 'global business model evolution' to increase app store choice, lower prices, and create more opportunities for developers and users. Epic’s CEO Tim Sweeney confirmed the development on X and noted Epic already hosts third-party stores such as Itch and GOG Galaxy.
- •Google and Epic Games agreed to jointly withdraw a motion to modify the US court’s injunction related to Android app stores.
- •The Play Store will begin distributing third-party app stores natively starting next week (publication date 2026-07-16).
- •The change is expected to speed the arrival of the Epic Games Store on Google Play and allow other third-party stores including Samsung’s Galaxy Store, AltStore, and Skich — and potentially an Xbox app store.
