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The Supreme Court didn’t save Google from Epic, and now the clock is ticking

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is a senior editor and founding member of The Verge who covers gadgets, games, and toys. He spent 15 years editing the likes of CNET, Gizmodo, and Engadget.

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Now, Google has just over two weeks once again — because the US Supreme Court has decided not to save Google ahead of its Supreme Court appeal. Today, the Court denied the company’s request for a partial stay, meaning the permanent injunction is still in effect, meaning Google must do the following things this month or be in violation:

Stop Google from forcing app developers to use Google Play Billing

Let Android developers tell users about other ways to pay from within the Play Store

Let Android developers link to ways to download their apps outside of the Play Store

Let developers set their own prices

Stop sharing money or perks with phonemakers, carriers, and app developers in exchange for Google Play exclusivity or preinstallation

Work with Epic to resolve any disputes as Google builds a system to let rival app stores into Google Play

Epic Games says the deadline for Google to comply is now October 22nd, 2025. “Starting October 22, developers will be legally entitled to steer US Google Play users to out-of-app payments without fees, scare screens, and friction - same as Apple App Store users in the US!” writes Epic CEO Tim Sweeney.

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