Google may remove BharatMatrimony

Google India is considering the removal of Bharat Matrimony, Info Edge, and 8 other entities due to non-payment.

Google India is considering removing BharatMatrimony, Info Edge, and 8 other entities due to non-payment

The conflict centers on the startups’ objection to Google’s enforcement of a service charge varying from 11-26 percent on in-app transactions in India. This follows a directive from antitrust regulators for Google to abolish its former structure, which imposed fees ranging from 15-30 percent. According to sources cited by Reuters, Google, the renowned technology company, is considering the removal of applications developed by 10 Indian companies, including well-known matrimony apps. This action is a result of a dispute regarding service fee payments. Additionally, this move has the potential to further strain relations with startup firms

The contention centers on the startups’ opposition to Google’s enforcement of a service fee that varies from 11-26 percent for in-app payments in India. This arises subsequent to the antitrust authorities’ directive for Google to dismantle its previous fee structure, which ranged from 15-30 percent.

These notifications come after Google was granted permission by Indian courts to impose fees or delete applications that violate its policies. This decision was influenced by the Supreme Court’s refusal to provide relief to startups who were challenging Google’s dominance in the app market.

The notifications sent to Matrimony.com and Info Edge suggest that their apps may have violated Google’s Play Store policies, which could result in penalties such as fees or removal from the platform. Both companies are now reviewing the notifications and considering their next steps.

This development highlights the ongoing power struggle between tech giants like Google and smaller companies who rely on their platforms for distribution. It also raises questions about the extent of Google’s control over the app market and the potential impact on competition and innovation in the industry.