Epic Games, Google’s years-long legal war takes a surprising turn

The long-running legal war between Google and Epic Games, one of the tech industry’s most dramatic feuds, may finally be nearing its end.

Both companies have proposed a settlement to resolve their years-long dispute over Google Play Store rules and in-app transaction fees.

The agreement, submitted to US District Judge James Donato, still awaits court approval but could mark a turning point for Android developers worldwide.

If approved, the deal would prohibit Google from entering exclusive contracts with app developers and would require it to modify Android to support alternative “registered app stores.”

The settlement would remain in effect until 2032, introducing major reforms to Google’s business model.

A key provision would also cap Google Play transaction fees at 9% or 20%, depending on the type of purchase, a significant reduction that could benefit millions of app developers.

The new proposal replaces a shorter three-year arrangement, which both companies say lacked lasting impact.

Google’s president of Android ecosystems, Sameer Samat, said the goal is to create more flexibility and competition while maintaining user safety.

Meanwhile, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney hailed the proposed settlement as a victory for openness, calling it “a step toward making Android a truly open platform.”

Notably, judge Donato is expected to review the proposal in the coming weeks.