India Accuses Apple of Misusing Its Dominant iOS App Market Position
The Indian administration is advocating for state-funded applications to come pre-installed on all smartphones, including those powered by iOS and Android. However, it seems that both Apple and Google are likely to resist this initiative.
Historically, the Indian government has emphasized the importance of pre-loaded apps. In a private dialogue in 2023, it urged Apple to allow local experts to review app updates before any rollout. Yet, this approach did not lead to substantial changes; similar outcomes are anticipated regarding the current proposal.
As reported by Bloomberg, recent conversations between Indian officials and representatives from Apple and Google focus on installing a government-endorsed suite of applications by default on mobile devices. Furthermore, these apps should ideally be accessible from alternative app stores without triggering “untrusted source” notifications.
With Android dominating 90% of India’s estimated 700 million smartphone users, the likelihood of compliance from Google appears slim. Sources indicate that Apple’s response will likely echo this stance as well.
During discussions with major smartphone manufacturers alongside Apple and Google representatives, notions around legal steps were apparently considered as a means for enforcement. Changes in Indian legislation mandating pre-installed applications were also reportedly introduced into these talks.
Contrary to previous ideas suggesting all app updates undergo scrutiny from India before public release by tech giants like Apple or Google, there might be hope for success with this current demand due to potential legislative adjustments as well as existing precedents.
In an example from 2021, Apple conceded to installing certain applications on new iPhones sold or activated within Russia after new laws were established in 2019—although their implementation experienced delays initially.
Another compelling factor for Apple’s consideration could stem from the fact that each application under discussion is already offered on its App Store within India. Since they have passed through Apple’s rigorous app review process already, the argument suggests that pre-installation would significantly enhance user engagement with these programs.
Nonetheless, past experiences indicate resistance; back in 2017 when India raised concerns regarding delays over an anti-spam application—primarily due to call log data implications—the talks stretched long until a simplified version was ultimately accepted without compromising user data protection protocols. In contrast, Google’s approach was markedly more lenient; they expedited availability without hesitations directly onto their Play Store platform.
Another complexity lies in opening third-party app stores while avoiding cautionary alerts—a move prompting questions about India’s intentions if it indeed triumphs in making its previously discussed middle ground mandatory unless it initiates broader measures urging tech firms like Apple towards permitting third-party platforms broadly across their ecosystems altogether.
This concept aligns closely with recent successful advocacy efforts made by entities within the European Union pushing for similar reforms throughout digital marketplaces therein leading them down potentially parallel pathways towards effective market adjustments.
