Google recently faced criticism for removing Indian apps like Shaadi.com, Naukri, and 99acres from the Play Store. On Saturday, it began restoring these digital platforms following backlash from the Internet and Mobile Association of India. Sources confirmed the return of these apps, highlighting the importance of local companies.
Sanjeev Bikchandani, co-founder of Info Edge, announced via blog post on X that his team, led by Hitesh Oberoi, worked through the night to resolve the issue. Their effort underscores the resilience of Indian tech in navigating global challenges.
IAMAI has also criticised Google
The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) earlier criticized the removal of apps from the Play Store and urged Google to reinstate them.
Google had taken down over a dozen apps from Indian digital companies, including Shaadi.com Matrimony. The company stated it would act against 10 app developers who refused to comply with its payment policy, despite following other app store regulations.
These apps have been removed
Google has also taken down apps from platforms like Altt, Stage, and Aha for streaming, Truly Madly and Quack Quack for dating, KuCoo FM for audio content, and FRND, a social networking app.
FAQs Abou Google Restores Apps
Q1:Why were these apps removed?
A:Google took down these apps for not complying with its payment policy, even though they followed other app store regulations.
Q2:Which apps were affected?
A:The affected apps include streaming platforms like Altt, Stage, and Aha, dating apps such as Truly Madly and Quack Quack, the audio content app KuCoo FM, and the social networking app FRND.
Q3:Will these apps return to the Play Store?
A:There is a possibility of reinstatement if the developers align with Google’s policies.
Q4:Are these apps available on other platforms?
A:Yes, many of these apps can still be downloaded from their official websites or other app stores.
Q5:How does this affect users?
A:Users may face disruptions in accessing their favorite apps, but most services continue to operate through alternative platforms.
Q6:What steps can developers take to resolve this?
A:Developers need to comply with Google’s payment policy to have their apps reinstated on the Play Store.
Q7:Is Google facing criticism for these actions?
A:Yes, organizations like the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) have criticized Google, urging it to reconsider its stance and reinstate the apps.
Q8:Are similar actions expected in the future?
A:Google has hinted at enforcing its policies more strictly, so developers may need to adapt quickly to avoid future removals.
Conclusion
The removal of apps like Altt, Shaadi.com, and Truly Madly from the Play Store highlights the growing tension between global tech platforms and local developers. While compliance with policies is essential, the backlash underscores the need for balanced regulations that support both innovation and fair practices. As the situation evolves, users and developers alike will closely watch how these challenges are resolved.
