India’s Competition Commission has launched an antitrust probe into Google’s in-app billing system following complaints from Indian developers that it is “unfair” and “discriminatory.” The regulator alleges that Google violated several provisions and has ordered an investigation.
- 🔍 India’s antitrust regulator ordered an investigation into Google’s app store billing practices, alleging unfair and discriminatory policies.
- 💰 The regulator accused Google of charging excessive and unfair service fees ranging from 10% to 30% on in-app purchases and paid apps.
- ⚖️ Google is accused of implementing its policies in a discriminatory manner, providing arbitrary distinctions between apps offering digital vs. physical goods/services.
- 🇮🇳 This is the latest headache for Google in India, where it has faced allegations of anti-competitive practices despite investing billions.
- 💸 The Indian regulator previously fined Google for abusing its dominant position in the Android smartphone market and ordered changes to its business model.
- 🗣️ Indian startup founders have criticized Google, calling it the “most evil” partner and accusing it of controlling the ecosystem through monopolistic practices.