Epic Games Files Lawsuit Against Google And Samsung

Epic Games, the creator of “Fortnite’’, has announced the filing of a lawsuit against Google and Samsung, accusing both companies of coordinating efforts to block competition in app distribution on Samsung devices through the default-on”Auto Blocker” feature.

According to Epic, Auto Blocker is the latest in a series of agreements where Google and Samsung have conspired to protect Google’s monopoly power.

This feature, pre-enabled on new Samsung phones, prevents users from installing apps from any source other than the Google Play Store or Samsung’s app store.

Epic claims the feature solidifies the Google Play Store as the only viable app source on Samsung devices, preventing other app stores from competing on equal terms.

This lawsuit follows Epic’s April proposal for an injunction aimed at increasing competition in Google’s Play Store by allowing third-party app stores and billing systems equal access, challenging Google’s control over Android’s app ecosystem.

Epic argues that there is no system in place for rival stores to gain “authorized” status, said The Verge. As reported by Reuters, Epic claims Samsung and Google are violating U.S. antitrust laws by restricting consumer options and stifling competition, which could lead to higher app prices.

Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, criticized Google’s approach to app security, stating that it falsely portrays third-party apps as unsafe. “Google is pretending to protect users while knowing full well that Fortnite is safe, as they have previously distributed it,” Sweeney told Reuters.

BBC also notes that Google Play and Samsung have previously collaborated with Epic on Fortnite-related events, including digital skin promotions.

Meanwhile, Samsung has rejected Epic’s claims, maintaining that its security features are designed to protect users from harmful apps.

“We are committed to ensuring users’ privacy and security,” Samsung said in a statement to Reuters, arguing that users can turn off the Auto Blocker feature if they wish.

“Contrary to Epic Game’s assertions, Samsung actively fosters market competition, enhances consumer choice, and conducts its operations fairly,” a spokesperson for Samsung said in a statement reported by CNET.

Multiple news outlets have reached out to Google, but the company has not yet provided a response to the request for comment.