Apps of 10 domestic companies of Indian Developers were removed from Google Play store for alleged non-compliance with its payment policies on March 1.
However, after strong opposition from the Indian government, Google has reinstated some of the delisted apps.
The affected apps span prominent segments like matrimony, jobs, real estate and dating in the thriving internet economy.
Backdrop of Billing Policy Changes
Google Play introduced a new billing system in 2020 making it mandatory for selling digital goods to use its proprietary system for transactions.
This allowed Google to charge commissions ranging from 15-30% on purchases made within apps.
Indian developers have staunchly opposed this policy citing high fees that erode their revenue. After prolonged protests, Google amended rules last year permitting alternative payments for Indian apps in addition to its own billing.
However, the company continued demanding compliance, which 10 firms have evidently failed at, resulting in the purge of their applications after multiple warnings.
Swift Enforcement Post Supreme Court’s Order
Earlier in February, domestic startups had petitioned to the Supreme Court seeking respite from forced removal given ongoing hearings. But the court refused interim relief on February 8.
Armed with legal clearance, Google swung into action on March 1, pulling down apps of 10 anonymous developers as conveyed through blog and email alerts to them.
Government Intervention
On March 2nd, the Indian government called an urgent meeting with Google over this dispute. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conveyed that the government strongly opposed the delisting of apps developed by Indian firms.
He stated that such unilateral actions by Google would not be permitted. Hence Google has started reinstating some of the more prominent delisted apps.
Apps Affected Leads in Matrimonial and Job Portals
While Google has withheld names, industry sources reveal prominent apps facing removal. The ten Indian companies affected include:
1. ALT Balaji: It is a subscription-based video-on-demand platform that offers a wide range of original shows, movies, and web series across various genres. It is owned by ALT Digital Media Entertainment Limited.
2. Bharat Matrimony: It is one of India’s leading online matrimony platforms, connecting individuals seeking life partners. It is owned by Matimony.com Limited.
3. Naukri: It is a well-established job search platform that connects job seekers with employers and recruiters. It is owned by Info Edge (Indian Limited).
4. 99 Acres: It is a popular real estate portal that provides property listings, buying, selling, and renting services. It is also owned by Info Edge (India) Limited.
5. Kuku FM: It is an audio content platform that offers a diverse range of audio shows, podcasts, and stories in various Indian languages. It is owned by Kuku FM Private Limited
6. Quack-Quack: It is a dating app that connects singles for friendship, relationships, and matchmaking. It is owned by QuackQuack.in.
7. Shaadi.com: It is a well-known matrimony platform that facilitates matchmaking and matrimonial services. It is owned by People Interactive (I) Pvt. Ltd.
8. Stage : It is another dating app, but further details about its ownership are not explicitly mentioned.
9. Truly Madly: It is a dating app that focuses on verified profiles and meaningful connections. It is owned by Truly Madly Matchmakers Private Limited.
10. Stage OTT: It is an over-the-top streaming service.
Apps Back on Play Store
As of March 3, several flagship apps of Info Edge India have made a comeback on the Play Store. These include:
- Naukri.com – Leading job and recruitment portal
- 99acres – Popular real estate website
- Naukri Gulf – Jobs portal for Gulf countries
In addition, matrimonial giant Shaadi.com owned by People Group is also back on Play Store after the latest government intervention.
Violations Pertain To Billing Provisions
Google Play terms mandate enrollment in its billing system for all applications selling virtual goods or unlocking premium features. This permits the tech giant to collect a share between 10-30%.
Indian developers were granted alternatives to bypass charges last October. But options like direct credit card processing incur additional layers like 2FA.
Google maintains delisted application avoided better integration despite repeated warnings and chances since 2021.
Google Argues Policy Applied evenly
The company claims its payments policy aims at creating a level playing field instead of targeting any specific sector or business model. It pointed out over 200,000 indigenous apps actively comply without complaints.
A spokesperson explained Google Play investing in protections, discovery features and tools benefit developers. Charging commissions funds these and future enhancements – non compliant apps undermine those efforts.
While Google refused naming particular apps, it associated lack of adherence to unfair competition given most rivals are paying commissions.
Developers Allege Exploitation
Expectedly, affected developers have rebutted Google’s stance vehemently. Sources from delisted firms argue the tech leaders abuse might lead smaller ventures bankrupt. They plan on petitioning India’s anti-trust watchdog CCI citing bias.
Developers accused Google of imposing unreasonable conditions reminiscent of legacy phone carriers. Various founders argued fledgling apps cannot shoulder high charges and need regulatory curbs on gatekeepers like Google.
A common allegation from affected Indian entrepreneurs was inconsistent enforcement. Some questioned why only certain companies faced action while bigger corporations escaped so far.
Impact
The government’s opposition has brought some relief to Indian developers who faced revenue losses from disappearing apps. However, Google is yet to restore all delisted apps. The full impact on consumers and developers remains uncertain.
If Google refuses to reinstate remaining apps, further legal disputes might arise between the tech giant and Indian app ecosystem. Ultimately, millions of smartphone users stand affected if they lose access to highly popular indigenous apps.
Further Appeals To Regulators, Courts Likely
Although Google has judicially validated rights currently, tensions clearly persist between its payments regime and Indian developers.
Stakes intensify considering India stands out with fast growing internet adoption on smartphones. Top apps draw tens of millions of users – promising yet price conscious market.
Hence, builders of popular indigenous apps are expected to escalate disputes through lawsuits, complaints with the Competition Commission while lobbying for governmental action.
As the saga continues, impacts may extend across boundaries of India’s consumer internet industry given deep involvement of marquee startups and unicorns.
For smartphone users though, accessing their favorite apps now requires additional installations pending outcomes of this tussle.
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