Competition Commission of India

• 16 Mar 2024

Finding a prima facie violation of competition laws, Competition Commission of India on 15th March ordered a probe into Google's Play Store pricing policy.

• Complaints allege that Google's updated payment policies impact app developers, payment processors, and users.
• Google faces accusations of charging high service fees and engaging in discriminatory practices.
• The CCI ordered a detailed investigation by its Director General, citing potential abuse of dominant position by Google.
• The watchdog notes concerns over revenue distribution and the arbitrary nature of Google's service fees.
• Google's virtual monopoly power in the app market is said to deter legitimate competition and increase costs for developers.
• The investigation follows a previous penalty of Rs 936.44 crore imposed on Google by the CCI for abusing its dominant position in the Play Store.