Google needs to copy Apple to extricate itself from its Play Store mess
Google decided to charge a 30% fee for in-app payments only because that is what Apple charges
The plaintiffs’ attorneys pointed out that Google could easily afford to reduce its cut of in-app revenue. In 2019, Samsung U.S. generated $100 million of in-app revenue compared to approximately $4 billion for Google.
When Google responded to complaints from state Attorneys General earlier this year, it pointed out that because sideloading apps from third-party app stores are allowed in Android, the Play Store “provides more openness and choice than others.” But this is refuted in the lawsuit since Google’s OEM agreement with phone manufacturers force them to include the Play Store on their phones if they want to install Google apps like Gmail and Google Maps.
As it says in the court documents, “For apps distributed through the Google Play Store, Google in its DDA (Developer Distribution Agreement) with app developers imposes multiple anticompetitive restrictions. First, it prohibits developers from distributing to their existing customers outside of Google Play, either by (1) using customer information to contact them directly or (2) steering those customers within the app to another store or to the developers’ own website.”
Will Google copy Apple and allow developers to contact subscribers and promote alternative payment platforms?
Google can continue to defend its 30% cut on in-app payments, but like Apple, the ground is shifting under its feet. Apple made a little but important change and now it is up to Google to do the same.
For all the latest Technology News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.