Following the failure of a last-ditch bid to halt India’s landmark Android verdict, Google has explained how its mobile operating system would alter to suit instructions from the country’s Competition Commission. Google claimed in a blog post uncovered by a credible source that Android users in India would be able to choose their device’s default search engine “via a choice screen” that shows when they initially set up a new phone or tablet.
Moreover, beginning February, all applications and games purchased from the Play Store will enable third-party pricing options, allowing developers to charge a lower cost for in-app purchases. Users will also be able to uninstall first-party apps that arrived with their smartphones, according to the firm.
Last October, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) penalized Google the equivalent of $162 million, alleging that the corporation had unjustly disadvantaged competitors by abusing its “dominant position” in search, video, and the web. The directive will redefine the company’s relationship with Android makers, in addition to modifying what Indian users may anticipate from Android. The company said that OEMs will be able to license particular first-party apps to pre-install on their handsets. In addition, the business will alter Android’s compatibility standards in order to better handle forked operating system versions.
Apparently, Google is not excited about re-engineering Android to comply with the CCI’s instructions. “Implementing these changes across the ecosystem will be a complex process that will necessitate significant work on our end as well as, in many cases, significant efforts from partners, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and developers,” the firm added. Meanwhile, the company intends to “respectfully appeal certain aspects” of the Commission’s rulings. “We take our commitment to comply with local laws and regulations in India seriously,” Google stated.
Google has attempted to appease authorities and prevent such involvement by launching initiatives such as its User Choice Billing trial, which allows developers to integrate alternative in-app purchase mechanisms within their applications. Google may be swimming against the tide at this point. The US Department of Justice sued the business on Tuesday in an attempt to separate its ad tech division. In addition, US authorities may require Google to open up the Play Store to greater competition.
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