Google's Proposal to Open India's App Market for Real Money Games

Google has proposed to permit Real Money Games (RMGs) on Google Play in India to address anti-competition issues. The proposal aims to include all compliant RMGs and adjusts advertising policies to ensure fair competition. A public comment period is open until August 20.

In a bid to address anti-competition concerns, Google has laid forth a proposal to allow Real Money Games (RMGs) on its Google Play platform in India. This move follows an investigation by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) initiated by a complaint from Winzo Games Pvt Ltd.

The proposal includes significant changes to Google's advertising policy, allowing games of skill to be advertised in India under certain conditions. Google's commitment aims to eliminate any perceived competitive disadvantages and standardize policies, ensuring inclusive access for all compliant RMGs, thus fostering a more competitive marketplace.

Google's current pilot program has been criticized for potentially excluding certain RMG applications and creating barriers for new market entrants. The proposed changes promise to replace the pilot with an inclusive model that would permit all developer self-declared legally permissible RMGs on Google Play.

(With inputs from agencies.)