The Android Toll: Google to Charge $2.85 Per Install for External App Links

In the ongoing Epic Games v Google case, the article reports that under Google’s current plan, a new external content linking framework is set to take effect on 23 January 202a6, though the piece notes it would impose substantial costs on developers unless a settlement with Epic is accepted.

It states that if developers route users to download apps outside Google Play, Google plans to charge $2.85 per app install or $3.65 per game install, with any installation completed within 24 hours of the link click attributed to Google. Developers opting for their own in‑app payment systems would see Google take a 20% commission on purchases, or 10% for auto‑renewing subscriptions, and they must use Google APIs for transaction tracking and report all transactions, even zero‑dollar trials.

The article notes a cap, limiting part of these fees to 10% for the first $1 million in revenue, implying that genuine savings against the existing 15% model may be modest once third‑party payment costs are included. It also highlights that Epic has warned of a legal challenge if the plan takes effect, and describes Google’s stated aim as sustaining investment in Android and the Google Play ecosystem while enabling external linking.