Google tries to find an app store fix after Fortnite rift

If consumers do use Google’s Play app store, though, the company is making clear to developers that it will take a cut of many in-app payments. This increased enforcement of an existing rule may mean major developers including Netflix Inc., Spotify Technology SA and Match Group Inc., end up paying more.

Epic Games Inc. pulled its popular Fortnite game from Google and Apple Inc.’s app stores recently to protest what it said are high fees and restrictive rules for developers. Both Google and Apple take up to a 30% commission of most transactions.

While Apple only allows its own app store on iPhones, Google’s model is different. The search giant provides Android free to handset makers, such as Samsung Electronics Co., in exchange for getting Google’s search, app store and other services pre-installed prominently on the devices.