Google's Android Registered App Stores program launches Dec. 1, applications now open

What happened

Google has announced that stores wishing to be part of that program are now free to apply, and support will roll out to some Android devices later this year. Easier app installs are coming to third-party stores, pending Google's stamp of approval. Google is an Internet and software company based in Mountain View.

Running an app ecosystem has gotten a lot more complex for Google in the wake of its loss in the Epic Games antitrust (the law against a company using its size to shut out competition) case. While those in the US have access to app stores inside Google Play by order of the court, international users will have Google's voluntary Registered App Stores program . App stores accepted into the program will enjoy preferential treatment on the Android platform.