A federal judge has signaled intent to implement significant changes in Google’s Android app store following a jury ruling declaring it an illegal monopoly that has negatively impacted consumers and app developers. Judge James Donato suggested potential remedies in a hearing in San Francisco, including mandating Google’s Play Store to provide users with the option to download alternative app stores.
The jury’s decision in December prompted the examination of Google’s control over app distribution for Android phones and the associated billing systems. Google, citing concerns about security risks from third-party app stores, has expressed resistance to potential requirements for change.
Judge Donato emphasized the necessity for a substantial overhaul of the Play Store, despite the challenges and estimated costs, which Google has claimed could reach $600 million depending on the court’s directives. He aims to outline the modifications to the Play Store in an order expected in the coming weeks, possibly before Labor Day weekend.
In a similar antitrust case involving Google’s search engine, remedy hearings are set to commence in Washington, D.C. Google is proposing a timeline of 12 to 16 months for implementing changes, while Epic Games, the plaintiff in the Play Store case, asserts that the adjustments could be completed in about three months at a cost of approximately $1 million.
Judge Donato expressed skepticism regarding Google’s suggested timeline, indicating a reluctance to grant the company an extended period for compliance. He is considering a shorter term than the six years proposed by Epic Games, suggesting a one or two-year period, while Google is advocating for a shorter duration.
Despite the impending shake-up, Donato assured Google that he does not intend to micromanage its operations but rather aims to foster competition among app stores. The judge emphasized the goal of cultivating a landscape of competitive app stores.
