Epic Games, the developer of the Fortnite game, has challenged Google, asking federal Judge James Donato to block Google from entering into anticompetitive agreements and supporting rival app stores. Epic’s goal is to bypass Google’s payment system by increasing revenue from in-game purchases and marketing games through its own store.
Google says the changes will compromise user security and harm its partners, including device manufacturers and app developers. The company appealed the decision, which could have delayed or canceled the penalties.
Judge Donato emphasized that Google should be held accountable for its illegal monopoly. He suggested that remedial measures could include Google making significant investments to correct unfair practices. Epic also proposed requiring Google to allow rival stores to list apps on Google Play for six years to “level the playing field.”
The final hearing is scheduled for August and sentences will be handed down in September.
Source: Ferra
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