Epic–Google antitrust truce? Judge uncovers hidden $800 million partnership
Epic Games and Google have quietly entered a confidential business deal worth about $800 million, revealed during a U.S. court hearing. The partnership involves Unreal Engine, Fortnite, and Android, raising concerns it may be linked to settling their antitrust dispute.
New Delhi: Epic Games and Google have quietly entered into a major new business agreement worth roughly $800 million, even as their long-running antitrust battle over Android appears to be nearing a settlement. The deal surfaced unexpectedly during a court hearing in San Francisco, where a judge questioned whether the partnership played a role in softening Epic’s stance against Google.
The agreement, which has not been publicly announced by either company, appears to involve Unreal Engine, Fortnite, and Google’s Android ecosystem. While most details remain confidential, the court indicated the deal includes joint product development, shared marketing efforts, and strategic partnerships between the two companies, reported by Verge.
Judge raises concerns over influence on settlement
California District Judge James Donato openly questioned whether the business arrangement could have affected Epic’s push for broader reforms to Android. He suggested the partnership may involve Epic helping Google promote Android, while Google gains deeper access to Epic’s core technology. The judge appeared wary that this could weaken Epic’s incentive to fight for changes that would benefit all developers, not just itself.
During testimony, Epic CEO Tim Sweeney acknowledged the existence of the deal and briefly hinted at its connection to Epic’s broader "metaverse” ambitions. He indicated that Google would make expanded use of Unreal Engine technology, before stopping himself mid-sentence due to confidentiality concerns.
$800 million spend over six years
Judge Donato revealed a key financial detail in open court, stating the deal includes an $800 million commitment spread over six years. According to Sweeney, the money reflects Epic’s decision to purchase Google services at market rates after previously avoiding them. He stressed that this represents a transfer of value from Epic to Google, not the other way around.
Sweeney also pushed back against suggestions of a quid pro quo. He denied that Epic was being rewarded with special treatment on Android or that the Epic Games Store would gain any exclusive advantages under the agreement.
Settlement and deal appear closely linked
The court suggested the partnership may only move forward if the proposed antitrust settlement is approved. That settlement would require Google to lower Play Store fees globally and make it easier for alternative app stores to operate on Android devices. Sweeney admitted the business deal and settlement are connected and described both as central to Epic’s long-term growth strategy.
Despite the controversy, Sweeney maintained that Epic is sticking to its long-held principle of not accepting preferential deals. He reiterated that Epic’s goal remains a more competitive and open Android ecosystem for all developers, not just for itself.