Apps Return to Play Store After Meeting Between Indian Government and Google

After the Central government’s ban, Google reinstated the apps of 10 Indian companies on Saturday, which had been removed from the Play Store. This news was reported by the ANI news agency, citing government sources. Earlier in the morning, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had stated that Google did not have permission to remove Indian apps from the Play Store in the ‘In-App Payment’ case.

Vaishnaw said that to address this dispute, representatives from Google and startups affected by the removal of apps from both Google’s Play Store and Apple’s App Store have been called for a meeting in the coming week.

In reality, the company had removed the apps of 10 companies from the Play Store on Friday, citing app billing policies. Google had stated that the apps removed were given a grace period of 3 years to comply with the policy, but they had refused to accept the policy.

Protecting the interests of the startup ecosystem is crucial.

Vaishnaw said, “India is very clear, our policy is very clear. Our startups will get the necessary protection. I hope Google will listen to our concerns. We have a thriving startup ecosystem and it is important to safeguard their interests.

First, let’s understand the dispute.

Google charges a commission of 11% to 26% on in-app payments, which Indian startups have been protesting against. Previously, Google had not enforced these fees, in defiance of orders from regulators who had ordered the rejection of fees ranging from 15% to 30% for merchants. Google has now started levying these fees. Google argues that its fee contributes to the development and promotion of the Android and Play Store ecosystem.

Many companies have filed complaints against Google regarding in-app payment fees. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) ordered an investigation into this matter in May of last year.

Google has removed apps from its Google Play Store, according to media reports. The apps removed include those of Bharat Matrimony, Shaadi.com, Naukri.com, 99-acres.com, Altt, Stage, Aha, Truly Madly, Quake, Kuku FM, and FRND. Google had stated on March 1st that these companies have ample time, but they have not agreed with the billing policy. Therefore, they will now have to take action. However, the companies are expected to re-establish their apps on the Play Store within a day.