# Third-Party App Stores Are Finally Coming to Google Play Android users will soon have more app store options. - **Source:** [Lifehacker](https://brifing.si/source/f1400ced-a26b-4e58-a567-6187eca3708d) - **Published:** 2026-07-15 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6cbc5b4c-f257-40ba-808a-0e9b05f0e0f6 ## A New Era for Play Store Starting July 22, Google will allow third-party app stores on the Play Store. These stores can distribute their own apps as well as apps from the Play Store. Apps by U.S. developers will automatically be available in these stores unless they opt out. ## Google's Rules Still Apply While third-party stores can distribute apps outside the Play Store, they must comply with Google's security, privacy, and user safety rules. Store developers will need to pay Google a $5,000 upfront fee for security reviews, renewable annually. ## Result of the Epic Games Agreement This change stems from an agreement between Google and Epic Games. Epic sued Google and Apple after Fortnite was removed from their stores. In 2021, a judge ruled that Google had an illegal monopoly over Android apps. ## Google's Move Google tried to overturn the ruling but failed. The company attempted to settle the case with Epic for $800 million. However, the judge insisted that third-party stores must be available via the Play Store. Google has now accepted this decision. ## Opportunities for Users and Developers Google aims to offer users more choices and expand opportunities for developers. The company emphasized maintaining Android's security while fostering a competitive ecosystem. Besides Epic Games, other stores are expected to emerge. ## A Turning Point for App Distribution This move marks a significant shift in the Android ecosystem. Users will have access to multiple app stores, while developers gain more options. Google's rules will ensure security and user experience remain intact. ## Sources covering this story - https://lifehacker.com/tech/third-party-app-stores-google-play?utm_medium=RSS — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._