In a bid to resolve the impasse over delisted Indian apps from its Play Store, Google Inc. is offering a compromise solution to ten key developers. Under the proposed plan, Google will re-list the apps on Play Store for free, provided transactions do not occur through Google’s payment platform. This concession aims to address concerns raised by developers regarding the hefty commissions levied by Google on digital revenues.
According to sources familiar with the matter, developers can facilitate transactions through their own websites without incurring Google’s payment platform fees, which typically range from 11 percent to 30 percent. However, if developers opt to use Google’s payment platform, they will be subject to the standard commission charges as part of the commercial agreement.
The move follows Google’s recent decision to remove apps of 10 developers from its Play Store for non-compliance with the user choice billing system. Among the impacted developers are prominent platforms like Shaadi.com, Bharat Matrimony, Naukri.com, and 99acres.
Sanjeev Bikhchandani, founder of Info Edge, expressed concern over the delisting of their app Jeevansathi.com, despite complying with Google’s directives on February 9th. Notably, other apps like 99acres and Naukri were also removed without prior notice.
The proposed compromise solution will be discussed in a meeting convened by Communications Minister Ashwani Vaishnaw next week to address the contentious issue. Minister Vaishnaw emphasized India’s commitment to protecting startups, asserting that unjustified delistings cannot be permitted.
Sources indicate that Google initiated the delisting process in March following a Supreme Court order that did not grant interim relief to petitioners, including startups challenging the app removals. The proposed compromise includes a 4 percent commission on digital revenue transactions occurring on the Google platform.
Despite the challenges, some developers have already opted for Google’s zero-payment option, facilitating their return to the platform swiftly. Google has assured developers of expedited processing to minimize disruptions.
In discussions with developers, Google highlighted that many have been paying commissions on competing app stores without raising objections. The proposed compromise aims to strike a balance between addressing developers’ concerns and upholding Google’s commercial interests while ensuring the smooth functioning of the Play Store ecosystem.
