Unlock The Power Of Google’s ₹20.24 Crore Settlement With CCI In Android TV Case

Google’s Settlement in Android TV case

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved a settlement with Google in the Android TV case, marking a big step under the new 2024 Settlement Regulations. Google will pay ₹20.24 crore, which includes a 15% discount as allowed by the rules.

The case started when two individuals, Kshitiz Arya and Purushottam Anand, complained that Google, along with Google India, Xiaomi, and TCL, was misusing its power in the Android TV market. They said Google forced manufacturers to bundle the Play Store with its Android TV system and blocked them from using other Android versions through strict agreements. This, they argued, limited competition and innovation, breaking Section 4 of the Competition Act, 2002.

After a quick review, the CCI believed Google might have broken the law under Sections 3(4) and 4, leading to a full investigation. The investigation confirmed Google’s strong position in the Indian smart TV operating system and app store markets. It found that Google’s agreements, like the Television App Distribution Agreement (TADA) and Android Compatibility Commitments (ACC), unfairly forced manufacturers to pre-install Google apps and discouraged them from creating alternative Android versions. However, claims of exclusive supply or refusal to deal weren’t proven.

Google then proposed a settlement under Section 48A of the Act. The CCI asked 45 stakeholders for their opinions before finalizing the deal. As part of the “New India Agreement,” Google will now offer a standalone license for the Play Store and Play Services, removing the need to bundle services or give default placements. Manufacturers can also ship devices without Google apps without breaking the rules.

After considering the seriousness of the issue and feedback, the CCI accepted the settlement, setting the penalty at ₹20.24 crore with a 15% discount. This decision is a key moment for India’s digital competition and shows how settlements can help solve antitrust problems.

Highlights: