Google is seeking to overturn a lower court ruling that would require it to allow third-party app stores and payment options in its Play Store. This follows a ruling where a jury found Google violated antitrust laws by blocking rival app stores. In a recent 110-page filing to the Ninth Circuit Appeals Court, Google argues that the California federal court's decision undermines its competitive stance against Apple and violates the judge’s earlier understanding of the competitive landscape. Google contends that the decision misinterprets its competition with Apple, as the latter does not have to allow rival app stores. The court had previously held that Google must remove restrictions preventing developers from using alternative payment systems, which could also permit crypto-integrating solutions. The appeals court will hear oral arguments on February 3, 2025, while the implementation of Judge Donato's order is currently on hold, pending the appeal’s outcome.

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