Judge James Donato continues to oversee the legal dispute between Epic and Google. The tech giants are in a tussle over the alleged monopolistic tendencies of Google’s app store. This issue brings critical evaluation of Google’s marketplace practices under the sun, and the potential ramifications this might have on developers and consumers.
For eight months, during hearings, Judge Donato has been consistent in asserting that Google cannot omit to expose its app store to competition. Possible challenges or additional expenses are not viable reasons to dismiss competitive practices. Any notion suggesting that Google isn’t obligated to maintain market transparency has been rejected by his judgements.
Judge Donato highlighted that change is imminent in the existing monopolistic paradigms. He foresaw a shift towards decentralization and fair competition.
Judge insists on competition in Google’s marketplace
Such a change could create a level playing field, giving a chance to smaller entities while major corporations may face consequences if they resist this transition.
Within two weeks, it is expected that Judge Donato will make a final ruling. Although Epic tasted success in December’s jury trial, the ultimate verdict on Google’s monopoly will come from Donato.
Epic is aiming for democratization of the Google Play store. They propose that Google should permit other stores to be part of its platform and gain access to all apps available on Google Play. The moot point is whether Google should be responsible for examining each app from other stores before granting access. While this could potentially diversify the marketplace, it raises valid concerns around security and regulation.
Such an expansive measure would require Google to maintain its standards for app safety and legality. The result of this ongoing debate could redefine not just the future of the Google Play store but also much of the broader landscape of app distribution platforms.
In a bid to encourage fair competition, Judge Donato has suggested a “technical compliance and monitoring committee.” This committee would comprise representatives from both Epic and Google and a third party agreed upon by both corporations. The committee would report to the court every 90 days.
