Popular Indian Apps Could Be Removed from Google Play Store
Several Indian app developers, including well-known names like Shaadi.com and Quack Quack, could be removed from the Google Play Store for non-compliance with the platform's payment policy. This move by Google has sparked potential tensions with local tech companies in India.
The Policy and the Response:
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| Google Play Store |
- Google's Play Store policy mandates developers to use its own billing system for in-app purchases. This policy aims to create a uniform and secure payment experience for users.
- Some developers, like those behind Shaadi.com, have challenged this policy in court but were unsuccessful in obtaining a temporary stay. Consequently, some companies, like Info Edge, have begun complying, while others, like Matrimony.com, remain hesitant due to concerns about its impact on their business models.
Google's Perspective:
- Google emphasizes the fairness of the policy, stating that most Indian developers already adhere to it. They remain committed to supporting developers who choose to comply.
Options for Non-Compliant Developers:
- Integrate with Google Play's billing system: This is the standard approach and ensures full functionality on the platform.
- Use an alternate billing system alongside Google Play's: This allows developers to keep some control over transactions but comes with reduced fees and potentially limited functionality.
- Operate as consumption-only: This option eliminates the need for in-app purchases but restricts app features and removes any revenue generation possibilities.
Implications and Future Outlook:
- This situation highlights the importance of adhering to Play Store policies for app developers. They must now assess their compliance and choose an appropriate option to maintain their apps' presence on the platform.
- The consequences for non-compliant developers can be significant, potentially requiring them to restructure their business models. It remains to be seen how developers will respond to this policy enforcement in the long run.
Overall, this policy enforcement by Google creates uncertainty for several popular Indian apps and could potentially impact the landscape of the app market in the region. It will be interesting to follow how the situation unfolds and how developers choose to adapt to the new requirements.
(Via)