"Play-distributed apps must use Google Play's billing system as the method of payment if they require or accept payment for access to features or services, including any app functionality, digital content or goods"

https://support.google.com/googleplay/android-developer/answ...

I think this is an algorithm mistake on Google's part. Their policy is clear that this scenario is okay. I wonder how they will respond?

On a tangent, if I were to release a paid app to third-party stores. I would have a base price then add the third-party fees on top.

A gripe would be that I don't see these stores allowing for a clear break down of fees. So I can't educate my users. And if a user is unaware of the added fees they can't take it into account on their next phone purchase.

Beyond that, given that there are only two choices seems to imply high barriers of entry into the phone OS game. And that does imply free market issues. But nothing a bit of waiting might not fix?

Well given the state of desktop market which has been around for decades there may be room for intervention, haha. Like grants/tax incentives for consumer apps selling on open source operating systems... idk