Google begins rollout of app marketplaces programme outside the U.S.
The initiative, known as the Registered App Stores programme, allows rival app marketplaces to compete at a higher level on the Android platform
Google is set to expand the availability of its app marketplaces programme beyond the U.S. in December. The initiative, called the Registered App Stores programme, aims to level the playing field for rival app marketplaces competing on the Android platform. Once a third-party app store is registered with Google, users will be able to install apps from those stores with just one tap.
However, the programme comes with steep participation costs, starting at $10,000 per year, and is only supported on Android devices running the latest versions of Android 17. This means that a significant number of global users will be excluded from participating. The programme is a response to multiple antitrust challenges against Google over its app marketplace practices on Android devices.
While Google claims its restrictions are in place to maintain user security and privacy, rivals argue that the fees and limited support hinder fair competition.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
