Google Play will offer user choice billing in the UK

Engadget - Mar 28th, 2025
Open on Engadget

Google announced that it will introduce user choice billing in the UK starting March 29, following a 2022 investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). This initiative allows Android developers in the UK to offer alternative billing systems for in-app purchases, initially limited to non-gaming apps. The UK joins a growing list of regions, including the US, Japan, and the EEA, where Google has rolled out similar options. Developers participating in this program will receive a four percent discount on Google's service fees but must still offer Google Play billing as an option.

This development stems from regulatory pressures, as Google's move is seen as a concession to the ongoing antitrust scrutiny by the UK CMA. While Google acknowledges the regulatory influence, the company presents this change as a response to developer demand for more billing options. Despite over 90% developer satisfaction with Google Play's billing system, Google recognizes the desire for increased choice. This shift could have significant implications for app developers, potentially altering the competitive landscape in digital payments and app monetization.

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RATING

7.6
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article effectively reports on Google's introduction of user choice billing in the UK, providing accurate information supported by credible sources. It highlights the regulatory context and Google's response to the CMA's investigation, making it a timely and relevant piece. However, the article could improve its balance by incorporating perspectives from independent developers and regulatory experts. While the language and structure are clear and accessible, further explanation of technical terms could enhance readability. The article addresses a topic of public interest and has the potential to influence industry practices, though its impact could be strengthened by presenting a wider range of viewpoints. Overall, the story is well-crafted and informative, with room for improvement in transparency and engagement.

RATING DETAILS

9
Accuracy

The article accurately reports on Google's introduction of user choice billing in the UK, aligning with Google's official announcements and multiple reputable sources. The claim that the rollout will begin on March 29 and initially target non-gaming apps is supported by TechCrunch and Engadget. Additionally, the story correctly identifies the countries where user choice billing is already available, such as the US and Japan. However, the article's assertion that over 90% of developers are satisfied with Google Play's billing is based solely on Google's statement, which might require independent verification for complete accuracy. Overall, the story provides precise information with strong source support, though it could benefit from corroborating the developer satisfaction claim with external data.

7
Balance

The article primarily presents Google's perspective, particularly through the lens of Google's Competition Counsel, Myrto Tagara. While it acknowledges the influence of the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) on Google's decision, it lacks a deeper exploration of the regulatory body's viewpoint or potential criticisms from developers who may be dissatisfied with the current billing system. The article could enhance balance by including perspectives from independent developers, consumer advocacy groups, or regulatory experts to provide a more comprehensive view of the implications of Google's policy change.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow that guides the reader through Google's decision and its implications. It uses straightforward language that is accessible to a general audience. However, the article could improve clarity by explaining technical terms such as 'user choice billing' in more detail for readers unfamiliar with app store policies. Additionally, providing a brief background on the CMA's investigation would help readers understand the regulatory context more fully.

8
Source quality

The article relies on credible sources, including Google's official announcements and reputable news outlets such as TechCrunch and Engadget. These sources are known for their reliability in reporting technology news. However, the article heavily depends on Google's statements without incorporating a wider range of independent sources that could provide additional context or critique. Including perspectives from developers or industry analysts would strengthen the source quality by offering a more diverse range of insights.

6
Transparency

The article provides clear information about Google's decision and its regulatory context, but it lacks transparency in certain areas. While it mentions Google's statement about developer satisfaction, it does not disclose the methodology behind this claim or any potential biases in Google's reporting. Additionally, the article could improve transparency by detailing how the CMA's investigation specifically influenced Google's decision-making process. Providing more context about the regulatory environment and Google's strategic motivations would enhance the article's transparency.

Sources

  1. https://techcrunch.com/2025/03/28/google-rolls-out-user-choice-billing-on-google-play-in-the-uk/
  2. https://www.medianama.com/2023/04/223-google-play-store-user-choice-billing-uk/
  3. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/643ef2c98b86bb000cf1b4b7/Schedule_1.pdf
  4. https://www.engadget.com/google-play-user-choice-billing-pilot-us-203330341.html
  5. https://play.google.com/intl/en-GB/console/about/programs/userchoicepilot/