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Epic Games CEO Backs Google’s App Store Settlement

By  |  November 5, 2025

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has applauded Google’s proposed settlement in its long-running antitrust battle with the Fortnite maker, describing the company’s new plan as a “comprehensive solution” that “genuinely doubles down” on Android’s identity as an open platform. The agreement, announced Tuesday, marks a significant shift in how Google manages its app store operations.

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    According to TechCrunch, Google’s settlement would implement key reforms to the Android app store, including reducing developer fees and allowing more competition in the mobile software marketplace. The proposal—still awaiting judicial approval—would permit Android developers to direct users toward alternative payment options within their apps and via external links. It also limits Google’s service fees to either 9% or 20%, depending on the nature of the transaction.

    Per TechCrunch, Sameer Samat, president of the Android Ecosystem at Google, said in a post on X that the reforms are designed to “expand developer choice and flexibility, lower fees, and encourage more competition all while keeping users safe.” If approved by the court, the settlement would conclude the ongoing antitrust litigation between Google and Epic Games.

    Related: Epic Games Urges Court to Uphold Sanctions Against Apple in App Store Dispute

    Sweeney praised the proposal on social media, calling it “awesome” and highlighting how it contrasts with Apple’s more restrictive approach. He argued that Apple’s policies continue to “block all competing stores and leave payments as the only vector for competition,” an approach that Epic has long criticized as anti-competitive.

    Apple, for its part, maintains that its App Store rules are centered on protecting user privacy and ensuring security. However, as TechCrunch noted, Apple’s Services division—which includes the App Store—posted record-breaking revenues last quarter, rising 15% year-over-year to $28.75 billion.

    Epic Games previously sued both Apple and Google, claiming that their app store practices unfairly stifled competition and forced developers to rely on their proprietary payment systems while paying high commissions. Although Apple largely prevailed in its case, it was required to adjust certain App Store guidelines to allow external payment links. Google, meanwhile, lost its appeal earlier this year after a jury determined it had restricted competition in the Android ecosystem.

    Source: TechCrunch