Google is set to allow eligible third-party app stores to be listed and offered to US users through Google Play starting July 22. Multiple outlets report that the change follows a development in Google’s legal situation involving third-party distribution of apps on Android, with Bloomberg saying Google told a California federal court it will implement the policy next week.
Under the approach described, third-party app marketplaces that meet eligibility requirements can appear in Google Play, enabling users to download those stores from within Google’s own app distribution platform. Sources also indicate that this does not remove or block Google Play from continuing to serve as a channel for app downloads. Instead, the policy is structured so that Google Play remains available for downloading apps, while third-party marketplaces gain the ability to be discovered and installed through Play.
The rollout timing is consistent across reports: July 22 is cited as the start date for allowing third-party app stores within Google Play for eligible stores in the US.
