The internet giant is also revising its compatibility agreements so that Android vendors in the EEA are allowed to make forked versions of Android while still distributing Google apps. A company could make an Amazon Fire-style device that still offers familiar Google software, in other words. Those brands that do want to license Chrome and Google Search can sign non-exclusive pre-install and placement deals, although Google noted that pre-installed competition was already possible.

All the licensing changes take effect for devices launched after October 29th.

On a basic level, the adjustments address the EU's claims that Google was strong arming vendors into taking Chrome and search if they wanted access to must-haves like the Play Store. It also tackles complaints that Google barred companies from selling forked Android devices without approval. However, the paid license is also a not-so-subtle jab at the EU -- okay, we can split up our apps, but it'll raise costs for manufacturers (and potentially users). While this isn't likely to change the EU's mind, the message is coming through loud and clear.