Judge gives Google one week to fix "anticompetitive" app store downloads

U.S. District Judge James Donato has ordered Google to rectify issues within the Play Store that he deemed "anticompetitive" within one week. The ruling addresses the way Google implemented the ability for users to download third-party app stores.

Google had begun offering third-party app store downloads earlier this week. However, after reviewing the process for accessing the first non-Google store, Aptoide Games, Judge Donato found Google's implementation to be insufficient.

The decision stems from a broader antitrust case where Google lost in 2023. The ongoing proceedings are focused on remedies for Google's alleged anticompetitive practices. A key court requirement is that Google must integrate third-party app stores into the Play Store, simplifying access for users.

Google had reportedly attempted to avoid this outcome. Despite resistance, the integration of Aptoide Games proceeded. Judge Donato's latest order indicates that Google's efforts to comply with the court's mandate have fallen short, requiring further adjustments.