Epic Games, the developer behind the popular game Fortnite, has launched a new lawsuit targeting both Google and Samsung. By suing Google and Samsung the company accuses them of working together to prevent third-party app stores from gaining a foothold on Samsung devices. Epic claims that the move stifles competition in the Android app market.
The Controversy Surrounding Samsung’s “Auto Blocker”
The crux of Epic’s lawsuit revolves around Samsung’s “Auto Blocker” feature, which comes enabled by default on Samsung phones. This feature only allows users to install apps from authorized sources. The sources include the Google Play Store and the Samsung Galaxy Store.
Epic claims that the real purpose of the Auto Blocker is to entrench the dominance of Google and Samsung. Thus, this will prevent competition from other app stores.
According to Epic Games, the process of installing apps from unauthorized sources has become an onerous 21-step procedure, which dissuades users from seeking out alternative app stores. This lengthy process, combined with the Auto Blocker’s default setting, makes it difficult for consumers to explore third-party app options, thereby limiting market competition.
Suing Google and Samsung
Epic’s lawsuit, filed in San Francisco federal court, is its second legal battle with Google over anti-competitive practices.
In its statement, Epic asserts that Samsung and Google coordinated to ensure that third-party app stores would face significant obstacles when attempting to reach Android users.
The video game maker argues that the Auto Blocker feature is not designed to protect users from security threats. They believe the goal is to prevent the installation of competing stores, making it nearly impossible for any alternative to thrive in the marketplace.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has publicly criticized the Auto Blocker feature. He stated that the feature’s purpose is solely to maintain the duopoly of Google and Samsung in-app distribution. Sweeney claims that without true competition, developers and consumers alike are harmed. The company has demanded that Samsung disable Auto Blocker by default. Another option is to provide a transparent process to allow third-party app stores to gain access to Samsung devices.
Samsung, on the other hand, has denied the allegations and defended the Auto Blocker feature. The company claimed it is a security measure that users can easily disable. The company has vowed to contest the lawsuit and maintain its commitment to safeguarding users’ privacy and security.
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