"Jury Rules Google's Android App Store Monopoly Violates Antitrust Law, Epic Games Wins Lawsuit"

A federal jury has found that Google's Android app store has an illegal monopoly in the markets for app distribution and in-app billing services, except in China. The jury agreed with Epic Games' arguments that Google engaged in anticompetitive conduct and tied the Google Play store to the use of Google Play billing. The verdict sets the stage for hearings next month to determine remedies for Google's anticompetitive practices. Epic Games did not seek monetary damages but asked for the ability to introduce their own app stores and billing systems on Android devices without restrictions. Google plans to challenge the verdict, stating that Android and Google Play provide more choice and openness than other major mobile platforms.