Majority of Delisted Apps Yet to be Relisted on Google Play, Says IAMAI
Last week, a significant number of apps were removed from Google Play, and according to the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), most of these apps are still not available for download. IAMAI expressed concerns over the delisting, labeling the measures as “unfair and disproportionate” amidst ongoing legal procedures.
Google’s crackdown targeted 10 developers who failed to adhere to its payment policy, resulting in the removal of several popular Indian apps, including Matrimony and Shaadi.com. Surprisingly, these developers were compliant with the payment policies of other app stores.
The removal affected a variety of applications spanning different categories, such as Altt, Stage, and Aha streaming platforms, Truly Madly and Quack Quack dating apps, Kuku FM audio content platform, and FRND social networking app. While a few apps like Shaadi.com, Naukri, 99acres, and NaukriGulf have been reinstated, many others have yet to be relisted on Google Play.
IAMAI criticized these actions, highlighting the discriminatory nature of the delisting. The organization pointed out that Google has offered preferential terms to app developers in other jurisdictions, particularly when legal proceedings or legislative developments are underway. IAMAI emphasized the importance of safeguarding the Indian tech ecosystem and providing favorable terms that support the growth of an open internet ecosystem in the country.
In response to the situation, Union IT and Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a meeting with Google for the following week. Vaishnaw underscored the crucial role of the startup ecosystem in the Indian economy and the necessity of protecting their interests from decisions made by a single large company. He expressed optimism for a reasonable approach from Google and reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving the issue, echoing IAMAI’s call for the re-listing of the delisted apps.
Analyst comment
Neutral news
As an analyst, the delisting of apps from Google Play may have a short-term negative impact on the market. However, the upcoming meeting between Union IT and Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Google could potentially lead to a resolution and the relisting of the delisted apps, which may mitigate the impact.
