Google may remove ten Indian apps from the Play Store due to non-compliance. In a blog post, Google warned ten Indian app developers that their apps might be taken down from the Play Store if they didn’t follow the rules. The names of the businesses that have broken the app store policies of the tech giant remain undisclosed.
The Supreme Court had decided to hear arguments from multiple startups challenging Google’s pricing practices on February 9. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud chaired the bench, but it decided not to grant a temporary injunction that would have prevented these startups from being removed from the Play Store.
“After giving all developers involved over three years to prepare, particularly three weeks after the Supreme Court’s order, we are taking the necessary steps to ensure that our policies are followed regularly across the ecosystem,” Google wrote in a blog post.
According to the company, it has been continuously assisting developers in navigating its policies and coming up with solutions. Google may remove non-compliant apps from its Play Store. To comply with its payment policy, developers can update their apps by choosing one of three billing options: using Google Play’s billing system, offering an alternative billing system, and operating without charging a service fee. Google’s blog provides more information on these options.
Sanjeev Bikhchandani, the founder of Info Edge, acknowledged receiving notification from Google but insisted they were following Play Store guidelines. According to Bikhchandani, all of Google’s invoices had been paid on time, and there were no unpaid balances. The impacted companies are concerned about this development because their user base and revenue streams may be greatly impacted if their apps are removed.
Developers can still distribute their apps through their websites or other Android app stores. The technology giant assured existing users that they can continue using their apps seamlessly. Additionally, support will be provided to developers to help them adapt to the latest standards. In a blog post, the company emphasized its unwavering commitment to India’s digital growth, citing its ongoing initiatives to introduce cutting-edge technology into the country.