Portuguese app marketplace Aptoide has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google in a Lisbon court, alleging the tech giant illegally stifles competition in Android app distribution. The lawsuit claims Google abuses its market dominance by blocking third-party app stores and coercing manufacturers to pre-install its Google Play Store.
Aptoide, which operates one of Europe’s largest independent Android app platforms, argues Google’s practices violate EU competition law. “Google systematically prevents competitors from thriving,” a company spokesperson stated. The lawsuit follows a 2021 EU ruling that fined Google €4.34 billion for forcing Android device makers to install Google apps.
Analysts note this case could test the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which takes full effect in 2024. “Aptoide’s case may become a bellwether for how aggressively regulators enforce new tech competition rules,” said a Brussels-based antitrust expert who requested anonymity.
Google maintains its policies protect user security. “Android provides more choice than any other mobile platform,” a company representative told reporters. However, court documents allege Google uses proprietary APIs to disadvantage rival stores.
The outcome could influence pending antitrust cases against Google in multiple jurisdictions. Legal observers suggest a ruling favoring Aptoide might compel Google to fundamentally restructure Android’s app ecosystem.