The European Commission is using Apple’s recent App Store changes as a reference point while evaluating Google Play’s compliance with EU competition rules. Regulators want the Play Store to match the level of openness and choice the DMA requires. They also warn Google that a major fine will arrive early next year if it does not follow the rules.
The inquiry centers on how Google manages payments, developer fees, and links to outside offers. Regulators say Google still restricts developers from directing users to cheaper options. They also say Google’s service fee goes beyond what current rules justify, which increases pressure on the company to adjust its business model.
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Reuters reported that investigators believe Google’s August tweaks do not meet expectations. They point to Apple’s revised App Store as the standard the EU now uses in this case.
Tweaks to Google Play announced in August to make it easier for app developers to direct customers to other channels and choose a fee model are still falling short, the people said, with the EU antitrust regulator viewing Apple’s recent changes to its App Store as a benchmark.
How Apple’s Changes Shape the EU’s Expectations
Apple redesigned its App Store earlier this year after receiving a €500 million fine. Regulators say these new rules and fees align with the Digital Markets Act. Google now faces the same scrutiny, and authorities expect similar openness when developers reach customers.
The EU notes that Google can still update its policies before a final penalty arrives. However, officials say any fine is likely to land in the first quarter of next year. The Commission has also expanded its focus, reviewing Google Search favoritism and how the company uses online content for its AI systems.
Here is Google’s statement on the matter:
“We continue to work closely with the European Commission in its ongoing investigation but have serious concerns that further changes would put Android and Play users at risk of malware, scams and data theft. Unlike iOS, Android is already open by design.”
DMA rules allow fines of up to 10 percent of a company’s global revenue. The Commission has declined to comment further as the investigation continues.
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