Google Removes Key Indian Apps Over Billing Policy Dispute, Sparking Backlash

Indian startups and officials criticize Google's decision to delist popular apps, highlighting concerns over digital dominance and calling for government intervention.

• Google delisted apps from 10 Indian companies, including major matrimony and OTT platforms, citing non-compliance with billing policies.
• Critics, including Anupam Mittal and Vinay Singhal, liken Google's actions to colonialism, calling it the 'new Digital East India Co.'
• IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has called for a meeting with Google representatives to discuss the dispute and protect the startup ecosystem.
• Indian startups are contesting Google's imposition of fees ranging from 11% to 26% on in-app payments, challenging the tech giant's practices.
• Calls for the establishment of an Indian mobile app store have intensified, aiming to reduce dependency on Google's Play Store.

6 Articles

Gadgets 360 Reuters NDTV NDTV NDTV NDTV