This legal move highlights growing scrutiny around competition in the mobile app ecosystem and challenges faced by alternative app stores.
Aptoide has filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against Google, alleging that the company continues to create barriers for rival Android app stores. The complaint has been filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of California.
Aptoide claims that despite recent changes following the Epic Games v. Google case, Google still makes it difficult for competitors to operate effectively. The lawsuit focuses on restrictions in app distribution and in-app billing, areas that have been central to ongoing regulatory debates.
According to Aptoide, Google’s practices limit fair competition by making it harder for alternative app stores to gain access to developers and major apps. The company also points to issues such as OEM lock-in agreements, developer exclusivity deals, and added friction for users trying to access non-Google app stores.
Google has introduced measures like the Registered App Store program and revised fee structures as part of its response to earlier legal challenges. However, Aptoide argues that these steps do not create a level playing field.
Aptoide says it serves over 200 million users annually and hosts around 436,000 apps. It believes these constraints have impacted its ability to compete on pricing, policies, and overall market reach.
The lawsuit underscores that concerns around market dominance and competition in app ecosystems continue beyond earlier settlements. Google has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
