Google Settles Landmark Android TV Antitrust Case in India

Technology giant Google settles a significant antitrust case with India's Competition Commission over allegations of unfair business practices related to the Android Smart TV market. Google modifies vendor agreements, unbundles Play services, pays a settlement, and marks the first usage of India's amended Competition Act's settlement provisions.

In a landmark settlement, tech behemoth Google has resolved a significant antitrust case in India concerning its Android Smart TV market practices. The case, settled with the Competition Commission of India (CCI), marks the first instance under the country's newly amended Competition Act.

Under the settlement, Google agreed to modify its agreements with vendors by offering a standalone license for the Play Store and Play Services, eliminating mandatory bundling. This move addresses anti-competitive concerns, allowing original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to develop and sell incompatible Android devices without violating the Television App Distribution Agreement.

Google also paid an amount of Rs 20.24 crore as part of the settlement. The case had initially attracted scrutiny over Google's dominant market position and restrictive agreements, which were alleged to stifle innovation and limit competition, resulting in violations of the competition law's provisions.

(With inputs from agencies.)