Google must make it easier to install alternative app stores, judge orders

Core Impact Points

• Google has been ordered to make it easier for users to install alternative app stores on the Play Store.
• The company has a week to implement changes to address 'anticompetitive friction' in the download process.
• The ruling is a significant step towards promoting competition in the app market.
• Google's decision to replace the normal 'Install' button with a 'View' button on the Aptoide app store was a major point of contention.
• The judge took issue with the way Google presents third-party app stores in search results and the current process for installing them from the Play Store.
• Google's first pass at supporting third-party app stores was deemed 'not loose enough' by the judge.