Managing an app ecosystem has become much more complex for Google after its loss in the Epic Games antitrust case. While US users can access the app stores on Google Play through court order, international users will use Google’s voluntary Registered App Stores program. Google has announced that stores that want to be part of that program can now apply for free and support will roll out to some Android devices later this year.
App stores accepted into the program will enjoy preferential treatment on the Android platform. Users of approved stores will be able to install apps with a single click, similar to the experience in the Play Store. These stores will also be able to silently update apps in the background, like the Google store does.
“In March, we announced the Registered App Store program to give third-party app stores a more streamlined way to reach users while maintaining the security of the Android ecosystem,” a Google spokesperson said. “Eligible app stores outside the US can now apply to register their stores before the new simplified installation experience rolls out to users later this year.”
The Android Registered App Stores program was initially Google’s backup plan. After losing its appeal of Judge James Donato’s verdict, Google faced a number of solutions, such as allowing third-party billing and sharing app catalogs with rival stores. The most dramatic change was the court’s requirement that Google distribute third-party stores within Google Play.
Google and Epic, having patched things up after the trial, attempted to resolve the case in a way that gave Google more control. Registered app stores were intended to replace hosting stores on Google Play, as long as they could meet a basic level of trust and security. Google intended to use this program in the United States and internationally, but the companies withdrew the agreement when the court said it would not be approved.
