Google says CCI's decision a 'setback' for consumers, will evaluate next steps

Google on Friday said that the Competition Commission of India's decision to impose a monetary penalty of Rs 1,337.76 crore on it was a "major setback" for consumers and businesses in the country.

"Android has created more choice for everyone, and supports thousands of successful businesses in India and around the world," a Google spokesperson said on Friday.

The global tech giant said it will review the CCI's decision to evaluate next steps.


Explainer: CCI draws red line for tech firms with fines on Google, booking sites

"The CCI's decision is a major setback for Indian consumers and businesses, opening serious security risks for Indians who trust Android's security features, and raising the cost of mobile devices for Indians," it added.

The CCI on Thursday said Google leveraged its dominant position in markets such as online search and app store for Android to protect the position of its apps like Chrome and YouTube in mobile Web browsers and online video hosting.

Also read: CCI imposes Rs 1,338-crore fine on Google for 'anti-competitive practices'

Besides the fine, the CCI also ordered Google to change its approach to its Android platform and restricted it from certain revenue-sharing agreements with smartphone makers. It prescribed a set of about a dozen key measures that the company has to comply with.

The regulator said makers of devices that run on Android shouldn’t be forced to pre-install Google services on their devices. It also asked Google to provide fair access to all stakeholders.

In April 2019, the regulator had ordered a detailed probe following complaints by users of Android-based smartphones in the country.