Google Play Store now hosts third-party app store Aptoide

Key facts

• Google Play Store now features Aptoide, a third-party app store.
• This is a result of the antitrust lawsuit between Epic Games and Google.
• Users in the US can download Aptoide directly from Google Play.
• The ruling requires Google to allow third-party app stores and alternative payment systems.
• Aptoide provides access to 1.9 million apps and 295,000 games.

Google has begun distributing Aptoide, a third-party app store, through its Play Store in the United States. This move comes as a direct result of a court order stemming from the antitrust lawsuit filed by Epic Games against Google, which concluded in 2023. Judge James Donato mandated several remedies, including allowing third-party app stores to be hosted on Google Play, lowering developer fees, and permitting alternative payment systems.

Previously, Google had attempted to avoid hosting third-party app stores directly, even agreeing to a settlement with Epic that would have allowed certification without direct Play Store distribution. However, that settlement was withdrawn when the court indicated it might not approve it. Consequently, Google is now complying with the judge's order by making Aptoide available.

Users in the US can now download Aptoide from the Play Store like any other application, without needing to enable sideloading or bypass security warnings. This streamlined process allows for easier installation of apps and games through Aptoide. While Aptoide's current offerings are limited compared to Google Play's extensive catalog, CEO Paulo Trezentos confirmed the store has access to 1.9 million apps and 295,000 games, as permitted by the ruling. Developers have the option to opt out of this sharing arrangement, but the integration uses the same versioning and billing as Google Play, making it likely that many will embrace this additional distribution channel.