India’s Competition Watchdog Targets Google Regarding Gaming App Regulations

Image by Mizter_X94 via Pixabay

Google Faces New Scrutiny Over Gaming App Policies in India

Google is currently under investigation by India’s competition regulator following a complaint regarding its gaming app policies that are perceived to favor certain platforms over others. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is looking closely at the search giant’s approach to real-money gaming apps, spurred by allegations from WinZO, a prominent online gaming platform.

Background of the Complaint

WinZO’s platform allows users to engage in various real-money games but has been notably excluded from the Google Play Store despite similar competitors gaining access. The CCI’s preliminary findings suggest that Google’s earlier policy revisions only benefited specific apps in the fantasy sports and rummy categories, while WinZO’s offerings—such as puzzles, car racing, and carrom—remain barred. This exclusion prompted WinZO to file a formal complaint with the CCI in 2022.

Potential Impact of the Investigation

The CCI’s order indicates that Google’s preferential treatment may have created a “two-tier market,”disadvantaging several developers by limiting their access and visibility within the Play Store ecosystem.

The outcome of this investigation is anticipated within the next 60 days, adding yet another chapter to Google’s ongoing legal challenges worldwide. Notably, the company has already faced significant penalties from the CCI in 2022 for anti-competitive behaviors related to its Android mobile operating system and Play Store regulations.

Broader Implications for Google

This latest inquiry adds to an escalating series of legal pressures that Google navigates globally. While the CCI has been particularly active in scrutinizing Google’s market practices, the company recently managed to overturn a substantial €1.49 billion ($1.66 billion) antitrust fine imposed by the European Union in 2019.

Moreover, reports suggest that the U.S. Department of Justice may be considering a significant restructuring of Google’s business model, which could involve separating the search engine from its parent company, in an attempt to foster a more equitable marketplace for competing search engines.

For more detailed information, see the CCI order and check the latest coverage on this matter via Reuters.

Source & Images