The pre-installation of Google apps on phones will now require a license from mobile carriers or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Following a decision by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), Google India modified its policies regarding the pre-installed apps that are available for Android smartphones in India. The Play Store will now offer Google apps like Chrome, G Pay, Gmail, and Maps for individual licensing rather than being required for Android devices.
Next month, user-choice billing will be accessible, and Indian users will soon have the option to select their preferred search engine. Google created an India-specific Mobile Application Distribution Agreement (iMADA) to demonstrate the modifications the CCI requested. In addition, OEMs who incorporate one of Google’s apps may see the app’s icon on the home screen and receive a “per-app reward” from the search giant. Instead of Google being the default search engine, users can now select their preferred search engine during phone setup. Furthermore, Google Play Store app billing will support third-party payment options.
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The tech giant has also established an Indian Placement Agreement that pays businesses to automatically pre-install any of its apps on device home screens. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) fined Google Rs. 1,337 crore for actions that harmed competition, such as requiring mobile companies to pre-install its apps. Additionally, the CCI required Google to make it possible for Android users to remove pre-installed apps.
