Epic Games and Google have reached a settlement that ends their ongoing legal battle over app store fees and practices, but it comes with notable restrictions on how Epic’s CEO, Tim Sweeney, can publicly discuss Google moving forward. According to reports, the agreement includes a clause requiring Sweeney and Epic Games to speak positively about Google’s competitiveness and app store operations, effectively preventing negative commentary related to these topics until 2032.
The legal dispute originally stemmed from Epic’s 2020 lawsuit accusing Google of monopolistic control over app distribution and in-app billing on Android devices. After a series of court decisions, including Google losing both the initial lawsuit and its appeal, the companies negotiated a settlement in late 2025. One key outcome was Google’s decision to reduce its Play Store transaction fee from 30 percent down to as low as 15 percent in some cases, addressing one of Epic’s major complaints.
Under the settlement’s terms, the non-disparagement clause lasts for five years after Google completes the rollout of its new fee structure, expected by September 30, 2027. This means Sweeney is contractually obligated to avoid public criticism related to Google’s app store and business model until after September 30, 2032. This development is particularly striking given Sweeney’s previous outspoken criticism, where he labeled Google and Apple as “gangster-style businesses” engaging in illegal practices.
Epic Games is responding to the settlement positively, announcing it will bring Fortnite back to the Play Store worldwide, signaling a significant shift in their relationship with Google. Sweeney expressed gratitude on social media, highlighting Google’s move toward supporting competing stores and payments, framing the settlement as a win for developers.
While the non-disparagement agreement restricts commentary specifically about app store distribution and fees, Epic clarified the company remains free to criticize Google on unrelated issues. This nuance leaves room for Sweeney and Epic to maintain a critical voice on broader topics while adhering to the settlement’s terms on the core dispute. The settlement marks a pivotal moment in the evolving dynamics between major game publishers and platform holders.
