In New Delhi, Google removed 10 e-commerce apps from its Play Store, eliciting a strong reaction from the government. However, by Saturday afternoon, these apps were reinstated.
The dispute involving Google's revenue suggests that this may not be the end of the conflict between app developers and the tech giant. Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced that Google and the affected firms would convene for a meeting next week. He emphasized that such actions by Google cannot be tolerated, stating that the startup ecosystem is vital for the Indian economy and should not be subject to the decisions of major tech companies.
Google took action to remove the 10 apps citing non-compliance with its billing policies, leading to a dispute between the tech giant and Indian app developers over what they view as unjust policies. Notable apps affected include Bharat Matrimony, Shaadi.com, 99acres, and Naukri.com.
This move came after Google announced its intent to enforce its payment policy, which involves removing apps from developers who do not comply. Google clarified that only 10 out of numerous developers using Google Play had chosen not to pay for the services, while over 2 lakh others were adhering to its billing policies.
Anupam Mittal, the founder of Shaadi.com, expressed concern, likening Google's actions to the British-era taxation system, calling for it to be stopped.
Google's Play Store serves as a crucial platform for app developers to reach a wide audience. However, developers worldwide have long contested Google's commission fees for listing apps on the Play Store.
Following objections from Indian developers, the Competition Commission of India instructed Google to offer developers alternative payment options instead of mandating the use of the Google Play billing system. Google introduced the user-choice billing system, allowing alternative payment methods but still levying a commission on in-app purchases. Despite this adjustment, developers and startups argue that Google's commission fees significantly impact their profits.
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