Google previously lost a lawsuit to Epic Games over alleged anti-competitive practices in restricting the app store on Android based on loyalty points gained by users. This case is currently in the sentencing phase as the court will determine the penalties.
In response, Epic Games issued a statement stating that this lawsuit was not about seeking damages but rather about wanting Google to be more open to developers. They proposed several orders for the court to consider. Google has now responded to Epic Games’ allegations.
Google argues that Epic’s claims go beyond the court’s jurisdiction, and they are already addressing this issue. Epic’s demands have wide-ranging implications on privacy, security, and overall user experience for developers and smartphone manufacturers. Google outlines the key points as follows:
– Not providing warnings when downloading apps from sources outside the store increases risks. While Android allows side-loading of apps, unlike iOS, Google has implemented security measures. Removing these measures poses risks.
– Sharing user data with third-party stores, such as what apps are installed, violates basic user privacy rights.
– Prohibiting Play Store from offering special benefits to developers hinders innovation. These are fundamental business strategies.
– Preventing Google from offering preloaded benefits on Play Store with smartphone manufacturers affects manufacturers’ revenue, ultimately impacting prices for customers.
Google concludes that Epic’s demands only benefit Epic itself, while the entire ecosystem on Android suffers. The court is expected to deliver a verdict this week, with Google likely to appeal.
TLDR: Google lost to Epic Games in a lawsuit over app store restrictions on Android. Epic’s demands impact privacy, security, user experience, and innovation. Google argues that Epic’s demands benefit only Epic, not the Android ecosystem. Verdict expected soon.
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