The ruling is a significant setback for Google, which had asked the court to block orders stemming from its high-stakes antitrust battle with Fortnite maker Epic Games.
The case began in 2020 when Epic accused Google of abusing its dominant position in the mobile app market by forcing developers to use Google's in-app payment system, which charges commissions of up to 30 percent, and by restricting the distribution of apps outside the Play Store.
In 2023, a U.S. jury sided with Epic, finding that Google's practices were anti-competitive. U.S. District Judge James Donato later issued a sweeping injunction aimed at opening Android's app ecosystem to more competition.
Under the new rules, developers will be allowed to offer direct payment options within their apps, bypassing Google's in-app billing system. Google will also have to make it easier for users to download apps and updates from alternative app stores or directly from developers.
Some of these changes, including enabling external payment links, could take effect within weeks, while more structural reforms, such as full access for rival app stores, are expected to roll out by July 2026.
Google expressed disappointment over the Supreme Court's decision, warning it could compromise the security of Android users.
'We remain concerned that these changes could create significant risks for consumers, including exposure to malware and scams,' Google said in a statement. Epic Games, however, welcomed the decision.
'This is a step toward a fairer, more competitive mobile ecosystem,' the company said, adding that developers will now have greater freedom to reach users and offer cheaper payment solutions.
The decision could set a precedent for tech giants as regulators worldwide push for fairer digital markets. It mirrors similar moves in Europe, where the Digital Markets Act has compelled Apple to loosen restrictions on iOS app distribution.
For millions of Android users and developers, the ruling promises more choice, potentially lower app prices, and faster innovation, though Google warns of potential trade-offs in safety and reliability.
Rania Umutoni
