Judge Orders Major Overhaul of Google's Play Store Amid Monopoly Ruling

A US District Judge is planning substantial changes to Google's Play Store following a jury's decision that it operates as an illegal monopoly. This decision affects both consumers and app developers, driving significant shifts in the Android app ecosystem.

Judge James Donato revealed during a hearing that he may mandate that Google offer consumers the option to download alternative app stores. This move aims to dismantle the company's nearly exclusive control over app distribution and billing systems. Despite Google's objections citing security risks from third-party app stores, Donato stressed the need for a competitive landscape, even if it incurs up to $600 million in costs for Google.

As part of the ruling process, Donato is considering the timeframe for these required changes, with Google requesting 12 to 16 months and Epic Games, the lawsuit filer, arguing for a three-month window. A decision is expected soon, potentially before Labor Day weekend. The implications may extend to future antitrust hearings concerning Google's search engine monopoly.

(With inputs from agencies.)