Google Android Antitrust Probe in India: Findings

Google's Android Practices Under Antitrust Scrutiny in India

A two-year antitrust investigation in India has revealed that Google allegedly misused its leading position with the Android operating system to unfairly disadvantage competitors within the country’s substantial internet market.

Investigation Findings

The probe determined that Google diminished the capacity and motivation of device manufacturers to create and distribute devices utilizing alternative Android versions, commonly referred to as forks.

Furthermore, the investigation concluded that Google’s practice of mandating the pre-installation of its applications on devices contravenes India’s competition regulations.

Broad Industry Response

Over fifty companies, including prominent players like Amazon and Apple, provided information to the Competition Commission of India (CCI) throughout the investigation.

Concerns Regarding Play Store Policies

The CCI also identified concerns with Google’s enforcement of policies related to the Play Store, characterizing them as “one-sided, ambiguous, vague, biased and arbitrary.”

Google's Response

Google stated its intention to collaborate with the CCI to illustrate how Android has fostered increased competition and innovation.

Growing Challenges in India

These findings, which have not yet been officially released by the CCI, represent another challenge for Google in India. The company is currently facing multiple antitrust investigations and increasing pressure from local startups, founders, and investors.

Support from the Digital India Foundation

The Alliance of Digital India Foundation, representing 350 startups, founders, and investors, praised the CCI’s findings. They affirmed that the watchdog’s actions align with the requirements of the Indian digital landscape.