According to Ars Technica, a judge has ordered Google to change how the Google Play store handles downloads of alternative Android app stores. The outlet's report characterises the current process as 'anticompetitive' and says third-party stores are set to become more visible in Google Play. Full details of the order, including the compliance timeline, were not available in the material reviewed.
Key facts
- Ars Technica reports that a judge has ordered Google to change how Google Play handles downloads of rival Android app stores.
- The outlet's headline describes the current download process as 'anticompetitive'.
- Ars Technica says third-party app stores are expected to become more visible in Google Play as a result.
- The precise terms of the order, including any deadline for Google to comply, were not confirmed in the material available.
A judge has ordered Google to change the way its Google Play store handles downloads of rival Android app stores, according to Ars Technica.
Ars Technica’s report characterises Google’s existing process for downloading alternative app stores as ‘anticompetitive’, and says the ruling is intended to make third-party stores more visible to users within Google Play.
According to the outlet, the practical effect of the ruling is that third-party app stores are set to become more visible in Google Play.
Further details of the order — including the court involved, the specific changes required and any deadline for Google to comply — were not confirmed in the material reviewed. Google’s response to the ruling was also not available.
Honest Abe News has not independently verified the terms of the ruling and will update this report as more details become available.
Why it matters
App stores are a primary gateway through which Android users install software, so changes to how rival stores can be found and downloaded could affect competition on the platform. Key details of the order remain unconfirmed in the material reviewed.
Frequently asked questions
What did the judge order Google to do?
According to Ars Technica, the judge ordered Google to make it easier to download alternative Android app stores through Google Play, addressing a process the court found to be anticompetitive.
How long does Google have to comply?
The judge gave Google one week to make the required changes.
What will change for users?
Ars Technica reports that third-party app stores are about to become more visible in Google Play, which could make it easier for users to find and download alternatives.