"Secret App Store Deals: Google's Silence Raises Questions Beyond Spotify"
Google has refused to disclose whether companies other than Spotify received special deals in its Android app store. While Google confirmed that Spotify received a favorable arrangement on app store fees, it did not provide information on whether Bumble or other developers in the "User Choice Billing" program were given similar benefits. Court documents suggest that developers still end up paying the same effective rate, despite the reduced service fee. Bumble's earnings calls indicate that it is now paying higher app store fees, but the company remains positive about User Choice Billing's impact on users. The exact details of Spotify's deal with Google remain undisclosed, as the court has not yet decided whether the rates should be made public.