Google will leave the default search engine and payment method selection to the user in accordance with the Indian regulator's request

Google, which is considered to be 'using a dominant position' about pre-installing its own applications on Android devices, has changed its business policy in response to requests from the Indian authorities. In addition, we announced that we will aim to allow users to choose their default search engine, payment method, etc.

Updates to Android and Google Play in India
https://blog.google/intl/en-in/updates-to-android-and-google-play-in-india/

Google has been sued by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), an antitrust authority in India, and it is not obligatory to pre-install Google apps such as Chrome and YouTube on devices with Android OS, and these apps can be uninstalled. It is requested to be able to change search engine providers.

Although Google objected to this, the Supreme Court of India decided to accept the CCI's request, so it was stipulated to comply with the CCI's request with a deadline of January 26, 2023.

India's Supreme Court rejects Google's request to invalidate rectification order, is it a dark cloud for Android business in India - GIGAZINE

On the 25th, the day before the deadline, Google officially issued a statement, stating that it would continue to appeal the CCI's decision, and announced that it would make changes to some policies in India.

The changes are to allow OEMs (manufacturers) to individually decide which Google apps to preinstall on their devices, to allow users to set their default search engine to something other than Google, and to allow users to set their default search engine to something other than Google. For example, allowing you to use third-party billing systems when making payments on Google Play.

Making these changes across the ecosystem is a complex process, and Google says it could cause a lot of trouble for partners, OEMs and developers.

'Our commitment to Indian users and the country's digital transformation is unwavering. Through Android, Google is giving OEMs unprecedented choice and flexibility to deliver safe, secure and trusted mobile devices to users in India and around the world,' said Google. We have made significant contributions to the mobile ecosystem by providing our platform and we believe technology will open up opportunities in core sectors of the Indian economy and we look forward to continuing to partner.' rice field.