India Advocates for a Government-Backed App Store
The Indian government is actively encouraging major tech giants, Apple and Google, to support its initiative for a government-sanctioned app marketplace known as GOV.in. This initiative mirrors recent developments in the European Union, where regulations like the Digital Markets Act (DMA) now allow third-party app stores on iOS and Android platforms.
Empowering Users with Essential Services
The primary goal of the GOV.in app store is to provide the Indian populace with convenient access to an array of government-endorsed applications. With over 700 million smartphone users, the Indian government aims to enhance safety standards and improve accessibility to vital social services through its curated selection of apps.
Diverse Offerings Within the GOV.in Ecosystem
This emerging app store already features several critical applications, including:
- DigiLocker: Facilitates the issuance and verification of documents, licenses, and certificates electronically.
- OCMMS: Monitors environmental conditions in local areas.
- Lokacart Plus: A Business-to-Business (B2B) e-commerce platform.
Financial Implications Prompting Change
One major factor driving the push for a local app store is the 30% commission fee imposed by both Apple and Google on transactions through their app stores. Developers in India have been vocal about the need for an alternative that offers lower costs. The EU’s DMA has prompted similar actions, allowing alternative app stores such as AltStore PAL to flourish on iOS and Android devices. Notably, in 2021, Apple also complied with local regulations in Russia permitting users to pre-install government-approved applications.
Challenges with Availability and Access
While many of the GOV.in applications are already listed on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, government representatives believe that integrating these apps within an official government app store could enhance visibility and user engagement. Currently, the GOV.in app store exists on Android devices, but users must navigate a complicated sideloading process, often encountering warnings about “untrusted sources,”which can deter less tech-savvy individuals.
India’s Regulatory Stance on Big Tech
The Indian government has a history of implementing stringent regulations on major technology firms. For instance, it imposed a ban on TikTok in 2020 and has sought access to encrypted messages on WhatsApp, a move that faced legal challenges.
Source: Bloomberg
Leave a Reply