The competition watchdog’s decision is a big step backwards for Indian users and stores that rely on Android’s security features and could possibly increase the costs of mobile devices, Google justified the step to the German press agency.
Competition authorities fined the company 13.37 billion rupees (150 million Swiss francs) in October. The Competition Commission has accused Google of abusing the dominant role of the Android operating system to improve its core online search business.
It was said that with pre-installed Google apps, Android users will be encouraged to use Google search. The Competition Commission has instructed Google to make changes, including the ability to remove Google apps.
A few days later, the Competition Commission also fined the company 9.36 billion rupees (105 million Swiss francs). He accused the company of abusing the Playstore’s dominant role by forcing developers to use Google’s payment system for app and in-app purchases.
India, soon to be officially the world’s most populous country, is an interesting growth market for Google and other Silicon Valley companies. Android phones are very popular in India.
(SDA)