1. On June 22, 2026, Google notified developers that unless they opted out by July 22, 2026, Google Play will begin providing their app listing(s) to third-party US Android app stores; 2. Third-party US Android app stores can now sign up for the Play Catalog Access program, which went into effect on July 22, 2026, giving eligible stores access to the Play catalog; 3. From July 15, 2026, third-party US Android app distribution platforms can begin onboarding into the Third-party App Store on Play Program, also effective July 22, 2026; 4. These changes follow the Epic Games US legal proceeding: on September 12, 2025 the Ninth Circuit upheld the injunction, and since October 29, 2025 Google no longer restricts developers from communicating prices or download links outside Play, requiring Play Billing, or prohibiting other in-app payment methods; 5. On March 4, 2026 Google and Epic entered a new settlement agreement and requested a revised Modified Injunction - further policy details will be published on the official page as they become available; 6. Developers enrolled in the US external content links and alternative billing programs must report transactions and successful downloads and pay the relevant service fees starting October 1, 2026; 7. Action item: check your Play Console opt-out status and notifications, review whether your listings now appear in third-party US stores, and keep your payment and distribution settings aligned with the new programs.