Google Seeks to delay judge’s ruling on App Store competition over security concerns

For many professionals out there, Google continues being the dream company that they want to land a job at. Even though the company carried multiple rounds of layoffs since 2023, it remains one of the highest paying tech companies in the world. This is why landing a job at Google at the beginning of their careers is huge for people. Hence, any news related to Google quickly goes viral and people are always curious to know about what's happening at the tech giant.

Now, according to a Reuters report, Google has filed a request with a California federal judge to delay a court order that mandates the company to open up its Play Store to increased competition. In a court filing submitted on Friday, the tech giant argued that the injunction, set to take effect on November 1, poses “serious safety, security, and privacy risks” to the Android ecosystem. Google urged U.S. District Judge James Donato to pause the ruling while it appeals the decision.

About the case

The injunction stems from a case filed by Epic Games, the maker of “Fortnite.” In October 2023, a jury ruled that Google had been illegally monopolising the way consumers download apps and make in-app purchases on Android devices.

Judge Donato’s ruling, issued on October 7, forces Google to allow third-party app stores and payment methods on its platform. Additionally, the order bars Google from paying device manufacturers to preinstall its Play Store and from sharing revenue generated through it with other app distributors.

Google claims the ruling could introduce significant risks to Android users, and is fighting to delay its implementation while pursuing a legal appeal.

Sundar Pichai on what it takes to join Google

On another note, Google boss Sundar Pichai recently shed light on what it takes to join Google’s coveted ranks, especially for those aiming at engineering roles. In an episode of The David Rubenstein Show: Peer to Peer Conversations, Pichai opened up about the attributes Google looks for in its employees, giving hopeful candidates a clearer picture of what it takes to be part of the tech behemoth.

According to Pichai, technical excellence is just the starting point. It’s the foundation, yes, but not the full package. What truly sets candidates apart is their adaptability and eagerness to learn in an ever-changing, dynamic environment. “We’re looking for superstar software engineers,” Pichai noted, saying that in a world of rapidly evolving technology, the ability to remain curious and agile is essential.

He also highlighted Google’s tradition of offering free meals to employees—not just as a perk but as a deliberate initiative to foster community and spark spontaneous moments of creativity. He also recalled his early days at Google, where informal chats in the café sometimes led to breakthrough ideas. “It’s about creating the conditions for people to connect and think outside the box,” he shared.

(With Reuters inputs)