In a significant legal development, Google has faced a setback in its ongoing battle regarding the restructuring of its app store. This case, initiated by the creators of a popular battle royale game, has drawn considerable attention and scrutiny from both the tech industry and legal experts alike.
Overview of the Case
On July 31, 2025, it was reported that the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court’s ruling that mandates Google to make substantial changes to its app store. This decision stems from an antitrust lawsuit filed by the developers of a well-known gaming franchise, which accused Google of engaging in practices that suppress competition within the app marketplace.
The original lawsuit was filed in 2020, and after a lengthy legal process, a jury sided with the plaintiffs in 2023, concluding that Google had indeed acted to limit competition unfairly. Following this verdict, the trial judge issued an order in October 2024, compelling Google to allow other developers access to its app store, thereby enhancing choices for Android users regarding app downloads.
Arguments Presented by Google
In its appeal, Google contended that the trial judge had made several legal missteps that unduly favored the plaintiffs. The tech giant argued that its app store operates in direct competition with other platforms, particularly highlighting its rivalry with a major competitor’s app store. However, the appeals court found these arguments unconvincing, leading to the rejection of Google’s appeal.
This ruling not only impacts Google but also sets a precedent for how app stores may operate in the future, potentially reshaping the landscape of mobile applications and digital marketplaces. As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Google will adapt to these new legal requirements and what implications this will have for developers and consumers alike.