Google has taken decisive action, removing more than 10 Indian apps, such as Kuku FM, Bharat Matrimony, and Shaadi.com, from the Play Store. The expulsion comes in response to violations of billing policies. Despite warnings and attempts at interim protection through legal avenues, these apps now face expulsion from the Android marketplace. The move underscores Google’s commitment to enforcing stringent policies for a secure and compliant app ecosystem.
Google Strict Enforcement
Google confirmed the removal of 10 apps without disclosing specific names. Predominantly comprising matrimonial, dating, video streaming, podcast, and recruitment apps, the purge aims to enforce compliance with Google’s billing policies.
Matrimonial Apps Take A Hit
Bharat Matrimony and its subsidiary apps like Telugu Matrimony, Tamil Matrimony, and Marathi Matrimony faced delisting. Shaadi.com, another major player in the matrimonial space, also found itself removed from the Play Store.
Diverse App Categories Affected
Dating apps such as QuackQuack and Truly Madly, video streaming platforms like Alt Balaji and Stage, and podcast app Kuku FM were among those delisted. Naukri.com, the Jeevansathi app, and real estate platforms 99 acres were not spared.
Google Three-Year Grace Period
Google provided more than three years for these apps to explore alternatives, including three additional weeks after a Supreme Court order. Despite the extended timeframe, non-compliance with billing policies led to their removal from the Play Store.
App Makers Seek Google And Government Intervention
Facing the consequences, app makers are seeking Google and government intervention, claiming Google delisted apps without sufficient notice. Kuku FM’s CEO, Lal Chand Bisu, criticized Google’s control over startups, urging government assistance. Naukri.com and 99 Acres founder Sanjeev Bikhchandani seek support from Minister Piyush Goyal, emphasizing the importance of local apps in India’s digital infrastructure.
As Google’s strict stance on billing policy compliance reverberates through the app ecosystem, the delisted apps continue to function for existing users. However, the app makers’ appeal for Google and government intervention underscores the complexities surrounding app store policies and the digital landscape’s evolving dynamics.
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