Google Reveals Antitrust Settlement Details, to Expand Choice on Android

In September, Google tentatively settled a class action lawsuit accusing its U.S. Play Store of breaching federal antitrust regulations by overcharging customers. The case involved charges brought by over 30 U.S. states on behalf of 21 million consumers, alleging Google's monopoly restricted consumer choices and potentially led to higher app expenses.

Earlier today, Google revealed the settlement details with State Attorneys General to further open up its Android mobile operating system and Google Play Store. Google says the settlement builds on Android's flexibility and choice while maintaining security and competition.

Some key terms of the settlement include:

1. Increasing options for alternative app stores by clarifying OEMs can continue preloading other app stores alongside Play. Google will also implement features to help third-party app stores update apps more seamlessly.

2. Streamlining the sideloading process to install apps from outside the Play Store while updating safety warnings for direct downloads.

3. Expanding a pilot program for user choice billing to more developers, allowing them to offer an alternative payment option within their apps.

4. Increasing open communication around pricing by letting developers showcase other purchase options both inside and outside their apps.

5. Google will pay $630 million into a fund for consumer benefits and $70 million to state coffers.

It remains to be seen if it gives users and developers more options both on devices and within the Play Store.