Google allows US devs to offer alternative payment methods on Play Store

Google has updated its policy to allow developers in the United States to offer alternative payment options and external links on Google Play.

This follows an injunction upheld by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals that ordered Google to allow rival marketplaces on its platform in the US.

As stated on its support page, Google has made two changes to its policies to “ensure compliance with the injunction” served by the court.

This includes allowing developers to “communicate with users about the availability or pricing of an app” outside Google Play, as well as enabling links to download apps outside the platform.

Google will also no longer “prohibit the use of in-app payment methods other than Google Play Billing” and will no longer “require a developer to set a price based on whether Google Play Billing is used.”

As Digital Trends reports, these changes will remain in effect until November 1, 2027 when the court order expires.

“Google Play’s move to allow external purchase links is a major win for U. mobile game developers,” Xsolla president Chris Hewish tells GameIndustry.biz.

“It gives studios greater control over monetisation, letting them direct players to their own web shops, retain more revenue, and build stronger relationships through direct payments and loyalty programs.

Hewish adds: “This freedom encourages innovation in pricing, bundles, and player engagement strategies that were previously limited by platform fees and rules. It’s a pivotal step toward a more open, developer-empowered, and player-friendly mobile game ecosystem.”

Back in 2023, Google lost an antitrust trial brought forward by Epic Games. The jury concluded that Google Play and its billing system was an illegal monopoly and anti-competitive.