Google Opens Play Store to Alternative Payments Under Epic Settlement

Google has begun rolling out alternative payment options for developers across major markets, implementing major Play Store billing changes tied to its proposed antitrust settlement with Epic Games even before the agreement has received final court approval. The changes were detailed in an official Google Developers Blog post.



Under the new structure, Google is replacing its previous Play Store billing fee structure with a new tiered service-fee model for developers that offer digital services or content. Service fees start at 10% on the first $1 million in annual earnings and on all auto-renewing subscriptions. For other transactions, rates differ based on whether a user's first app install occurred before or after the new rules took effect in their region. Developers can also offer an alternative billing system or link users to their own websites for purchases alongside Google Play Billing, though Google still collects a service fee.



The rollout begins June 30 in the United Kingdom, the European Economic Area, and the United States, with additional markets planned according to Google's published release schedule. Developers can also create their own billing choice screens instead of using Google Play's default version, provided they follow Google's UX guidelines.


Google is also introducing the Games Level Up and Apps Experience programs, which offer reduced service-fee rate cards for apps and games that meet specific quality and engagement requirements. The new rate cards officially become available on September 30, 2026.

The changes stem from Google's proposed settlement with Epic Games, which sued the company over alleged anticompetitive Play Store practices. Although the court has not yet formally approved the settlement, Google is moving ahead with the rollout outlined in the agreement. The rollout comes as Apple continues facing its own disputes over App Store payment rules. Apple recently agreed to a legal schedule for proceedings over what commissions it may charge for purchases completed outside the App Store, while also expanding alternative payment options in markets such as Brazil under regulatory pressure.