Google starts lowering Play Store fees, making good on Epic Games settlement
Summary
Google is starting to implement the Epic Games settlement by reducing Play Store fees in select markets ahead of a global rollout by 2027. The new model splits commissions into billing and service fees, offering a 10% service fee on the first $1M of yearly earnings, with higher rates (up to 25%) for existing installs above that threshold; apps installed after June 30 will top out at 20%. Developers can direct users to external payment options, paying the standard service fee but avoiding the Play Store billing fee. The rollout is staged across regions with specific dates and regional programs (Games Level Up and Apps Experience) that grant fee relief for adopting more Play Store features.