Google has challenged a CCI order on the tech giant abusing its dominant position in multiple markets in the Android mobile device ecosystem, saying the verdict is a setback for Indian users and will make such devices more expensive in the country. The Competition Commission had slapped a penalty of Rs 1,337.76 crore on Google for anti-competitive practices about Android mobile devices. In the October ruling, CCI had also ordered the internet major to cease various unfair business practices. A Google spokesperson told PTI.
“We have decided to appeal the CCI’s decision on Android as we believe it presents a major setback for our Indian users and businesses who trust Android’s security features, and potentially raises the cost of mobile devices.” “We look forward to making our case in NCLAT and remain committed to users and partners,” the spokesperson added. Android has greatly benefitted Indian users, developers, and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and powered India’s digital transformation, the company said. Sources said Google tried to suspend the order, but CCI said that Android’s open business model would encourage competition to the benefit of all the parties it supports, especially India. It added that it believes it did not acknowledge strong evidence from OEMs, developers, and users that CCI’s decision exposes the Indian user to unprecedented security risks, making his Android device in India more expensive, less capable, and less secure than it is today.
Google believes the ruling will hurt Indian developers and increase costs, according to a source familiar with the company’s position. In November, Google announced it would require developers to use Play’s billing system when purchasing digital goods and services in transactions from users in India while considering legal options under the CCI ruling. Did. It said, “on hiatus”. India is a key market for global tech giants, attracted by its large user base, hunger for technology, business potential, and supportive policies. The Indian-born Google CEO Sundar Pichai said during a visit to India earlier this week that the pace of technological change in the country has been extraordinary, and that the company is helping small businesses and start-ups focus on cyber security. said it helps them invest in upskilling. Applications of AI (artificial intelligence) in fields such as agriculture and healthcare.
