Epic Games Suing Google and Samsung Again Over App Store Policies

Epic Games has launched a new lawsuit against both Google and Samsung, marking another chapter in its ongoing legal battles over app store policies. The dispute centers on app distribution and payment systems within the Google Play Store and Samsung’s Galaxy Store. Epic is accusing both companies of monopolistic practices that harm developers and consumers by limiting access to alternative payment options and app distribution methods.

The conflict began in 2020 when Epic added an in-app payment option to its popular game, Fortnite, bypassing Google Play and Apple’s payment systems. This move violated both platforms’ policies, leading to the removal of Fortnite from their app stores. Epic responded by suing both Google and Apple, accusing them of anti-competitive behavior.

This new lawsuit, however, expands the scope to include Samsung, alleging that the tech giant’s Galaxy Store operates under similarly restrictive practices. Epic argues that developers should be able to offer their apps through other channels or offer payment methods that bypass the fees charged by Google and Samsung, which can be as high as 30%.

The lawsuit aims to force changes in app store policies, allowing for more open competition and reducing the control Google and Samsung have over their respective ecosystems. This legal battle is being closely watched as it could have significant implications for app developers, consumers, and the future of mobile app marketplaces.

Epic’s legal actions are part of a broader movement challenging the dominance of tech giants in the digital economy, raising questions about the fairness and openness of app ecosystems controlled by a few major players. Both Google and Samsung have yet to issue detailed responses to the latest lawsuit.