Google appeals CCI verdict on Android in NCLAT

Search giant Google on Friday said it has appealed the Competition Commission of India’s (CCI) decision regarding unfair business practices in the Android mobile device ecosystem in the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT).

"We believe it (the CCI decision) presents a major setback for our Indian users and businesses who trust Android's security features, and potentially raising the cost of mobile devices," a Google spokesperson told ET.

Google's appeal comes days after CEO Sundar Pichai, who was in India for the Google For India event earlier this week, spoke of the need for 'responsible regulation' and said India could take the lead in this sphere.


"Android has greatly benefitted Indian users, developers, and OEMs, and powered India’s digital transformation. We look forward to making our case and remain committed to our users and partners," the spokesperson added.

In October, the competition watchdog fined Google Rs 1,337.76 crore for abusing its control over certain markets with regard to Android mobile devices. The commission also ordered the company to stop engaging in a number of unfair commercial practices.

Sources said Google is optimistic that the NCLAT will take account of the evidence on record and the contribution that Android has made to the growth of the mobile ecosystem in India. The sources said that the company has requested a stay.

"Google is optimistic that the NCLAT will take into account this irreparable harm Android stakeholders will face if a stay is not granted pending the outcome of the appeal," the source said on the condition of anonymity.

Further, the source said that it isn't just Google, but even Indian phone manufacturers who disagree with the CCI’s remedies, given its adverse implications.

"They see the damage that this decision will cause to the Android ecosystem, and ultimately Indian users. The CCI claims to have acted in the interest of OEMs. But it seems like this is not the case - the same partners CCI seeks to protect, are protesting the CCI’s decision," the source added.