IAMAI, representing more than 580 Indian companies, including startups and multinational corporations, has urged Google to refrain from removing apps from its Google Play Store amid an ongoing dispute over billing policies. This plea comes after reports surfaced that Google issued warnings about delisting apps that fail to comply with its Play Store billing regulations.
According to IAMAI, at least four of its members have received delisting notices from Google. The association contends that these developers have cases pending before the Supreme Court of India, and therefore, Google should avoid taking “coercive action” during the legal proceedings.
Google mandates developers utilizing the Google Play store to utilize its built-in payment services and pay a 30% commission for in-app purchases, including digital items and subscription services. IAMAI, in a statement, advised Google against delisting any apps from Google Play while legal matters are pending.
IAMAI stated, “The affected members believe that a substantive hearing of the case is pending before the Supreme Court of India, and Google should refrain from any coercive action during the pendency of the case.”
In response, Google emphasized that a small group of companies, including well-established ones, have chosen not to adhere to the Play Store service fee for in-app purchases, creating an unfair advantage over compliant developers. Google claimed to have given developers ample time, over three years, to adapt to the policy, including an additional three weeks following a recent Supreme Court order.
Amid protests from certain prominent Indian startups regarding Google Play billing policies and the emergence of Indus Appstore, a Made-in-India app market challenger, Google stated in a blog post that allowing a select group of developers to receive differential treatment creates an uneven playing field.
Google clarified that enforcement of the policy, when necessary, can include removing non-compliant apps from Google Play. However, existing users will still be able to access the apps without interruption, and Google remains available to support developers in achieving compliance.
Google also mentioned that developers are welcome to resubmit their apps to be listed on Play by selecting one of the three billing options outlined in its payment policy.
Despite having over 200,000 Indian developers on Google Play adhering to its policies, Google noted that ten companies, including several well-established ones, have chosen not to pay for the value they receive from Google Play, opting instead for interim protections from the court.
