A federal judge has mandated Google to allow more competition in its app store, Google Play, enhancing user choice for Android app downloads. Judge James Donato's ruling prohibits Google from paying developers for exclusive app launches on its platform for three years, starting November 1. Additionally, developers are no longer required to use Google Play’s billing system and can inform users of alternative payment methods. Google must also permit third-party app stores access to its app catalog. In response, Google plans to appeal, arguing the changes threaten its competitiveness against Apple’s iOS.