Google's App Store Fees Spark Developer Outcry

Google has quietly updated its support pages, setting a January 28th deadline for developers to enroll in programs for alternative billing and external content links. This move comes as a response to a court order demanding greater openness in its Android app ecosystem. The proposed fees include charges per install, a 20 percent cut of in-app purchases, and 10 percent of subscriptions for external downloads, with alternative billing also incurring substantial fees.

Developers are required to submit apps for review, use Google APIs for tracking, and report all transactions, even $0 trials, to participate. While Google offers a slight discount on fees capped at 10 percent of the first $1 million in earnings, many developers find these new charges prohibitive. The situation draws parallels to legal battles faced by Apple, which was previously found in contempt for imposing high fees on external payments.

Epic Games has indicated strong opposition to Google's announced service fees, vowing to challenge them if implemented. However, the ultimate outcome hinges on Judge James Donato's decision regarding a proposed settlement between Google and Epic. An evidentiary hearing is scheduled for January 22nd to address these complex issues before a final ruling is made.