What are the changes in Android and Google Play in India following the antitrust ruling

Google announced the changes to Android and the Play Store in order to comply with recent regulatory rulings in India.

Android users in India will soon have the option to select their preferred search engine through a choice screen, similar to the system currently in place in Europe. In addition, Google announced changes to the Android setup process for new devices, as well as updates to sideloaded apps and app stores, to ensure users are aware of potential security risks. Furthermore, the company will be expanding the availability of "User Choice Billing" which allows for alternate billing options within apps, starting next month and including support for games.

We are expanding our online resources such as Help Center articles and FAQs to provide more detail on services provided by Google Play and how and when Google Play’s service fee applies.

Device manufacturers, or OEMs, will now have the option to "license individual Google apps for pre-installation" rather than being required to accept a package of services. Additionally, Google is modifying the Android compatibility standards to allow for the creation of "non-compatible or forked variants" by partners. This is a change from the earlier focus on preventing fragmentation and promoting interoperability within the Android ecosystem.

According to Google, the changes ordered by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) are substantial and will necessitate a significant effort from the company, its partners, OEMs, and developers. Despite this, Google plans to respectfully contest certain aspects of the CCI's decisions.