Epic v. Google: a battle over Fortnite fees goes to court
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By Adi Robertson, a senior tech and policy editor focused on VR, online platforms, and free expression. Adi has covered video games, biohacking, and more for The Verge since 2011.
The future of Google’s app store is at stake in a lawsuit by Fortnite publisher Epic Games. Epic sued Google in 2020 after a fight over in-app purchase fees, claiming the Android operating system’s Google Play store constituted an unlawful monopoly. It wants Google to make using third-party app stores, sideloaded apps, and non-Google payment processors easier — while Google says its demands would damage Android’s ability to offer a secure user experience and compete with Apple’s iOS.
The case has had a long road to court, arriving there long after a similar trial against Apple in 2021. Follow along with updates here.
TODAY, A minute ago
Sean Hollister
Epic’s attorney Gary Bornstein, arguing that Google also blocks competing app stores and payment mechanisms.
“They’re not allowed to use their power to stop everyone from trying. The law draws a line.”
He says he’ll also show evidence during the trial that Google knows its up-to-30-percent cut of Android app transactions is too high.
TODAY, 4 minutes ago
Sean Hollister
Argues Epic: “Google has such extraordinary power over android phones that it can use two strategies to prevent all other competition and maintain those big green bars. Here is what those strategies are: bribe or block.”
“Google pays actual and potential competitors not to compete. Literally gives them money and other things of value.”
“It’s like Google saying here’s $360 million — that’s an actual number you’ll hear about — why don’t you sit this one out and let me win?”
TODAY, 6 minutes ago
Sean Hollister
Epic’s
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