WinZO disputes Google’s plea over Play Store rules | Bengaluru News
Bengaluru: Real-money gaming platform WinZO has raised concerns over Google’s plea to the Competition Commission of India (CCI), arguing that it does not adequately address the anti-competitive issues flagged in an ongoing investigation. The case originates from WinZO’s 2022 complaint alleging that Google abused its dominant position by restricting Play Store access to only fantasy sports and rummy apps while excluding other real-money gaming categories. With Google controlling 96% of India’s app distribution market, WinZO said this policy inflated user acquisition costs by “at least 10x” for apps distributed outside the Play Store. Acting on the complaint, the CCI in Nov last year ordered a formal investigation, citing prima facie violations of competition law, including the imposition of unfair conditions, denial of market access, and limiting of market development. The Commission noted Google’s lack of clear criteria for its pilot programme, inconsistent enforcement of its ads policy, and “misleading payment warnings” shown to users sideloading apps, which it said artificially deterred usage. In a public notice issued recently, the CCI invited comments on Google’s commitment offer. Google’s proposal includes allowing all real-money games that are certified by recognised third-party bodies, replacing its pilot programme for fantasy sports and rummy apps, and permitting certified skill-based games to advertise on Google Ads. If approved, Google has committed to implement the Play Store changes within 120 days and its advertising changes within 150 days of the CCI’s order. The deadline for public comments is August 20. Responding to WinZO’s objections, a Google spokesperson said the company welcomed the CCI’s market testing of its proposed framework, describing it as the result of “constructive discussions” with the regulator and Indian developers. Google added that it is confident the proposal will create “a more open and safe ecosystem” for real-money gaming apps, empower local developers, and prioritise user safety. In its statement, WinZO said Google’s commitments “must be robust and genuinely eliminate the discriminatory practices identified,” adding that the proposed framework’s reference to “developing” a commercial model for real-money gaming lacked clear timelines or objective criteria.
