Google has confirmed a series of changes to Android Business in India to comply with CCI directives. Google was also slapped with a $161 million fine by CCI accusing it of “unfair” business practices.
Now smartphone makers will be able to license individual Google apps for pre-installation. They will not be forced to pre-install all Google suite apps. Partners will also be able to build non-compatible or forked variants of Android.
Users can now select the default search engine via a choice at the time of setting up a new Android device. They will not be forced to use Google search.
The company will also add user choice billing to all apps and games starting next month. Users can choose an alternative billing system alongside Google Play’s billing system when purchasing an app or in-app content.
Android users could always side load apps by downloading APKs from developer’s websites or other APK download sites. But the company has now made changes to give auto-updating capability for sideloaded apps.
Google has confirmed that it will continue to appeal the CCI’s directions, but it is making changes to comply with the land of the law.
Also see: Android Version List
