Google Play rival-store changes approach July 22

Google Play’s rival-store changes are still one of the biggest mobile-business stories heading into next week. With the proposed Google-Epic settlement withdrawn, court-ordered Android distribution changes are moving forward, and Google Play is set to begin carrying eligible rival app stores in the US from July 22. This is not legal wallpaper for mobile developers. Store distribution, payment options, link-outs and commissions directly affect margins and strategy.

The practical impact will take time, but the direction is clear: Android distribution in the US is about to get more complicated and potentially more flexible.