In this article, we will tell you all the details of the Epic vs Google lawsuit. Epic Games, the developer of the globally popular game Fortnite, filed a lawsuit against Google for anti-competitive practices in the application markets. Here are the details…
Epic vs Google: Does Google have a monopoly on app distribution?
One of the key issues in the case is whether Google has a monopoly over app distribution on its mobile platform. Epic Games argues that Google’s control over the Google Play Store, the primary distribution channel for Android apps, gives it an unfair advantage over other app stores.
Google’s response
Google has responded to the lawsuit, defending its decision to remove Fortnite from the Play Store. The company claims Epic Games violated the store’s terms of service by offering its in-app payment system. Google, on the other hand, argues that the Play Store is not a monopoly, as there are other app stores for Android devices.
The battle over payment systems
At the heart of the case is a dispute over payment systems. Epic Games wants to offer a separate payment system for its apps to avoid paying Google’s 30 percent fee for in-app purchases made through the Play Store. Google, on the other hand, says its payment system is necessary to protect its users from fraud and to enable developers to get paid for their apps.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney accused Google of abusing its power in Android app markets by forcing developers to use its payment system. He said this stifles competition and harms both developers and consumers.
List of potential witnesses
As the trial approaches, both companies have shared their lists of potential witnesses. Google’s list includes Google and Alphabet CEOs Sundar Pichai and Ruth Porat, respectively. Epic Games’ list includes Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney, as well as other company executives.
Conclusion
The outcome of the lawsuit between Epic vs Google could have significant implications for the future of app development. If Epic Games is successful in its claim that Google has a monopoly on app distribution, it could lead to changes in the way apps are distributed and sold in the Play Store. But if Google wins the case, it could cement the company’s position as the dominant force in the app market. The case will begin on November 6 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.
