The first rival Android app store just arrived in the US Play Store

Following the latest twist in Google’s legal battles with Epic, US Android users are now able to open Google’s Play Store and download a third-party digital store with its own selection of apps. Aptoide, a store specialized in mobile games, is the first to become available.

Third-party app stores have always been available on Android, which is a more open platform than iOS in that respect. However, until now they’ve only been available if pre-installed on a device — as with the Amazon Appstore on Fire tablets or Samsung’s Galaxy Store — or installed via sideloading. Listing rival storefronts within the Play Store makes them much easier for users to find and access.

The change is a direct result of Google’s litigation with Epic, which saw a judge rule in 2024 that the Play Store would have to open up to third-party stores. Google appealed the ruling,...

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