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Google will implement sweeping changes to its Play Store payment system starting June 30, 2026, following a legal settlement with Epic Games. The agreement, reached in March 2026, ends a dispute dating to 2020 and allows developers to offer alternative payment methods and link to external websites, marking a historic shift in Google's platform policies.
Developers can now integrate third-party payment systems or redirect users to their own websites for purchases. For users, a new payment screen will offer a choice between the developer's payment option or Google's system. If selecting the developer's option, users are warned they will be leaving Google's platform. Google expects that convenience and trust will keep many users on its own system.
Google's commission model has been restructured. It now consists of a mandatory service fee for using Google Play and an optional 5% billing fee for those using Google's payment system. The overall commission ranges from 9% to 20% . More detailed: for developers earning under $1 million, the commission is 10% for both subscriptions and in-app purchases. For larger developers, subscriptions are 10%, while in-app purchases are 20% for new installs and 25% for existing installs .
The changes initially apply in the United States, United Kingdom, and European Economic Area , though El Español implies a global rollout from June 30. While users may not see immediate price reductions, the reduced commissions could lead to lower prices over time if developers pass on savings.