Overview
- Developers can use their own billing alongside Google Play Billing or direct users to external websites for purchases, with a separate 5% billing rate in the EEA, UK, and US for those choosing Play Billing.
- An optional Registered App Stores program will streamline installation for qualified third‑party stores, launching outside the US first and targeted to ship with a major Android release by year‑end, with US availability subject to court approval.
- Play service fees drop to 20% for in‑app purchases on new installs, recurring subscriptions are set at 10%, and participating developers pay 20% on existing installs and 15% on new installs.
- The phased rollout starts by June 30, 2026 in the EEA, UK, and US, extends to Australia by September 30, to Korea and Japan by December 31, and reaches the rest of the world by September 30, 2027.
- Google says the changes resolve its litigation with Epic Games worldwide, and Epic confirms Fortnite will return to the Google Play Store globally.