Google is lowering Play Store fees and making it easier to install third-party stores on Android

The changes are based on the settlement reached with Epic Games in November 2025. Without waiting for final court approval, Google is implementing a number of changes that will impact both developers and users worldwide.

The main change is the new fee system. Google's base commission on in-app purchases made through the Play Store is being reduced from 30% to 20%. For developers participating in the new App Experience and the updated Google Play Games Level Up programs, the commission for initial app installs can be 15%. For subscriptions, the company's commission is also being reduced to 10%. Payments made through Google's payment system will now be subject to a 5% fee for developers in the US, UK, and the European Economic Area, with the rate potentially changing for other regions.

At the same time, Google is expanding its options for bypassing its payment systems. Developers will be able to offer users alternative payment methods both within the app and by redirecting them to their own websites for purchases. This approach is more flexible than Apple's policy, which has already led Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney to announce the imminent global return of Fortnite to the Google Play Store.

Additionally, the company is officially opening Android to third-party app stores through the new Registered App Stores program. App stores that meet established security and quality standards will be able to be installed more easily and seamlessly within the system. Users will still be able to download apps and stores from untrusted sources, although Google warns that this process may become more complex in the future.

The implementation of the changes will be phased and will last until 2027. The Commission's new rules will be first seen by countries in the European Economic Area, the UK, and the US by June 30, 2026. The Certified App Store program is expected to launch by the end of this year, along with a major Android update.