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Supreme Court Denies Google’s Bid to Delay Play Store Antitrust Changes

By  |  October 7, 2025

Changes are coming to Google’s Play Store despite the company’s efforts to maintain the status quo. According to Reuters, the U.S. Supreme Court has rejected Google’s request to halt portions of a federal antitrust ruling while it appeals the decision. The denial means the first wave of remedies ordered in the landmark Epic Games case will take effect within weeks.

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    The antitrust case, which centers on Google’s control over Android app distribution, has been years in the making. Google lost the trial in 2023, and in 2024, U.S. District Judge James Donato ordered sweeping measures to address what he deemed an illegal monopoly. Per Reuters, Google’s latest petition to the Supreme Court was its final attempt to delay enforcement of those remedies after losing an earlier appeal in July. With the justices declining to intervene, the company now faces a firm October 22 deadline to begin implementing the initial changes.

    These early measures will reshape how developers operate within the Play Store. Google must now allow links to alternative payment systems and external downloads, lifting its previous requirement that developers use Google Play Billing. The company is also prohibited from setting prices for developers. More substantial reforms—such as allowing third-party app stores to appear within the Play Store itself—are slated for July 2026.

    Read more: Google Argues Ad Exchange Breakup Would Disrupt Digital Ad Market

    Google expressed disappointment in the decision but reiterated its commitment to pursuing an appeal. “Android provides more choice for users and developers than any mobile OS, and the changes ordered by the U.S. District Court will jeopardize users’ ability to safely download apps. While we’re disappointed the order isn’t stayed, we will continue our appeal,” the company said.

    According to Reuters, Google intends to file a full appeal with the Supreme Court this month. If the case is taken up during the current term, the company may again seek to pause future portions of the court’s order. The upcoming July 2026 changes, which would open Android to broader app distribution, could have the greatest long-term impact on Google’s market position.

    The ruling also comes as Google introduces a new developer verification system for sideloaded apps, a move the company says enhances security.

    Source: Reuters