Google’s Enforcement of Play Store Policies in India

Google has announced its decision to enforce Play Store policies in India, signaling a proactive approach to ensure compliance among app developers. After providing developers with over three years to prepare, including three weeks following a Supreme Court order, Google is taking steps to ensure consistency in policy enforcement across the ecosystem, similar to its approach globally.

Policy Enforcement and App Removal

In a recent blog post, Google outlined its enforcement strategy, which may involve the removal of non-compliant apps from the Google Play Store. Developers are encouraged to resubmit their apps for listing on Play by selecting one of three billing options outlined in the company’s payments policy.

Billing Options for Developers

Google offers developers three billing options to facilitate compliance with its policies. The first option allows developers to operate on a consumption-only basis without incurring a service fee, even within a paid service. This option enables users to access content they have paid for outside the app.

The second option involves integrating Google Play’s billing system, providing a secure payment method for millions of customers globally. This option allows users to manage their payments centrally and ensures safe transactions.

Alternative Billing System

For developers in India, Google presents a third option: offering an alternative billing system alongside Google Play’s. By opting for alternative billing systems, developers can reduce fees by an additional four percent. Additionally, developers expanding into international markets can participate in Google’s user choice billing pilot available in 35 markets.

Support for Developers

Google reassures developers that existing users will continue to access apps without interruption during this transition. The company remains committed to supporting developers in achieving compliance with Play Store policies.

Impact on Indian Developers

Google highlights the significant contribution of the Android and Play ecosystem to job creation in India, supporting over 2.5 million jobs. The company emphasizes that less than 60 developers on Google Play are subject to fees exceeding 15 percent. With over 200,000 Indian developers using Google Play, the majority adhere to the platform’s policies.

Legal Challenges and Response

While Google moves forward with policy enforcement, the Supreme Court of India has issued notice on a petition challenging Google Play Store’s billing policy as “exploitative.” Despite legal challenges, Google remains focused on fostering a compliant and thriving app ecosystem in India.