What’s happened? Google has officially updated Play Store policy to let Android developers offer alternative billing options and link to external payment systems, according to its support documentation. This change follows court pressure, most notably from the Epic Games antitrust ruling, which forced Google to open up Android’s in-app payment ecosystem.
- Developers can now use their own billing systems instead of Google Play Billing, effective immediately.
- They can also link to external checkout pages directly inside apps.
- The external billing option currently applies only in the U.S., as part of Google’s compliance with the court mandate.
- Google says these changes remain in effect only until November 1, 2027, when the US District Court order expires, meaning the rules could shift again after that.
Recently, Google made another change in its rules where certain apps would require age verification before you can download them.
This is important because: Until now, Google has barred developers from directing users towards cheaper payment options outside the Play Store and required most apps to use Google Play Billing. That meant Google collected a commission on nearly every in-app purchase made through Android.
- Developers now get more freedom to promote offers and handle in-app payments outside Google’s system.
- They can tell users about external pricing, share direct download links, and accept payments via cards or third-party payment portals.
Why should I care? If you use Android apps that offer subscriptions, in-app purchases, or premium content, this change could directly affect your wallet. Right now, when you subscribe to an Android app, Google usually takes a revenue cut. With this update:
- Apps could promote direct billing deals, for example, “Save 20% by paying on our site.”
- You may see lower subscription offers outside Google Play
