Google found to unfairly block rival payments on India store
Google’s billing system for app developers is “unfair and discriminatory,” India’s antitrust regulator said in the initial findings of an extensive investigation, paving the way for potential penalties in future.
The Competition Commission of India found Google discriminated against developers in its Play store billing policy, according to documents seen by Bloomberg News.
The findings come after a months-long investigation triggered by protests from developers, who’ve complained the U.S.
Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent, and Apple Inc. have come under pressure from regulators around the world who accuse the twin mobile giants of forcing developers to use their payment systems, then taking an outsized cut of revenue
In South Korea, Google was forced to provide an alternative billing system after regulatory action.
In that market, Google said it was reducing app makers’ fees by 4%.
“Google is imposing unfair and discriminatory conditions in violation” of regulations, the Indian agency said in its preliminary report dated March 14.
India’s authorities have proven willing to go after the largest corporations and take forceful action -- when they see a clear, national interest.