In this week’s roundup, the U.S. Supreme Court deals a blow to Google in its ongoing battle with Epic Games, setting the stage for major changes to app store billing; Netflix brings its mobile games to TV screens, expanding its cross-platform entertainment strategy; and Supercell pushes back against proposed EU regulations that could reshape how free-to-play games operate in Europe.

Google loses Supreme Court stay in Epic case

The U.S. Supreme Court denied Google’s request to delay an injunction from Epic Games v. Google, requiring the company to comply by October 22, 2025. The ruling compels Google to allow Android developers to direct users to external payment systems without extra fees, striking at the heart of its Play Store billing model.

Implication: The decision could reshape mobile app monetization by weakening Google’s control over in-app payments and boosting developer margins. It also amplifies regulatory and competitive pressure on Apple to open its ecosystem under similar antitrust and Digital Markets Act scrutiny. For developers, it creates both opportunity and uncertainty as new billing frameworks emerge.

Netflix brings mobile games to TV

Starting this week, Netflix subscribers can play games directly on their smart TVs — a feature long in development. The company’s plans to extend its mobile games to television platforms first surfaced in early 2023, followed later that year by the release of a dedicated game controller app for iOS devices.

Implication: This move blurs the line between mobile and console experiences, positioning Netflix as a cross-platform player in casual gaming. It offers developers new reach but introduces interface and technical challenges. If successful, it could establish gaming as a core pillar of Netflix’s retention strategy rather than a peripheral experiment.

Supercell warns EU over proposed digital rules

Supercell CEO Ilkka Paananen published an open letter criticising draft EU regulations that would classify in-game currencies as financial transactions. He argued the changes could dismantle the free-to-play model and undermine how mobile games function, urging policymakers to consult the industry before implementation.

Implication: The letter spotlights rising friction between European regulators and game developers. Treating virtual currencies as financial products could impose compliance burdens that stifle creativity and favor large publishers. The industry’s coordinated response may influence how future digital-market rules balance consumer protection with innovation.