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Google Works With Indian Regulator & Preps Agreement For Phone-Makers

By  |  February 21, 2023

Google is reportedly readying a new agreement with Android phone sellers in India after CCI order.

A tipster who goes by the moniker @Za_Raczke on Twitter has got hold of a draft copy of the new India region-specific version of the Mobile Application Distribution Agreement (IMADA) document. 

According to the tipster, Google will no longer require manufacturers to include a certain set of Google apps on their devices. The only app that’s required is the Play Store, save for other vital pre-installed components like the Play services, which are necessary for many APIs that other apps use, including the ability to send notifications and use location data.

Read more: Google To Cooperate With India After Losing Bid To Block Antitrust Ruling

In a blog post Google said it would give Android users in India the option to decide on their device’s default search engine “via a choice screen” that appears when they first set up a new phone or tablet.

Additionally all apps and games downloaded from the Play Store will support third-party billing options, allowing developers to pay a smaller fee on in-app purchases. The company will also begin allowing users to uninstall the first-party apps that came with their devices.