Epic is suing Google and Samsung over its auto-blocking feature

Last year, Epic Games prevailed in court against Google in an antitrust case that alleged that the Google Play Store was an illegal monopoly. Now Epic has filed another lawsuit against Google, accusing the company of colluding with Samsung to make it difficult for users to install the Epic Games Store on mobile devices.

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney made the announcement on X, and his company posted a lengthy explanation of the matter on Epic’s official website. Essentially, Epic claims that Google directed Samsung to use the auto-block feature to force anyone trying to download the Epic Games Store app to take several unnecessary steps to download it to their phone.

We have filed new antitrust and unfair competition claims against Google and Samsung. The jury found Google’s practices illegal, and we are concerned that Google is encouraging Android hardware manufacturers and operators to adopt and continue Google’s illegal practices before… https://t.co/gBRFYgripd

— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) September 30, 2024

While the ease of downloading and using Epic Games Store apps is important, the larger dispute between Google and Epic concerns the 30% fees the former charged for games and apps sold on Google Play. Epic had the same problem with the Apple App Store, but did not win a lawsuit against Apple itself. The Epic Games Store allows Epic to set its own prices and compete with both Google Play and the App Store.

Via The Verge, Sweeney told reporters that Epic has no evidence of collusion between Google and Samsung, but hopes it will be revealed if the case goes to discovery. He also pointed out that Epic and Samsung have been in discussions about “whitelisting” the Epic Games Store and other legal apps so they can use auto-blocking features without having to force users to jump through so many hoops. A new lawsuit was filed after talks broke down.

“Contrary to Epic Game’s claims, Samsung actively supports market competition, increases consumer choice and conducts its business with integrity,” a Samsung spokesperson said via CNET. “The features integrated into our devices are designed in accordance with Samsung’s core principles of security, privacy and user control, and we are fully committed to protecting your personal information. Users have the option to turn off the Auto-Block feature at any time. We plan to vigorously dispute Epic Game’s baseless claims.”

Unless any settlement talks are initiated between the three companies, the case may return to court. However, there is currently no timetable for this to occur.