In a significant development in India’s ongoing scrutiny of global tech giants, Google has reached a settlement with the Competition Commission of India (CCI) over allegations of anti-competitive practices related to its Android TV operating system.
The settlement, disclosed earlier this week, marks the end of a multi-year probe into how Google allegedly abused its dominant position in the smart TV market through its licensing terms for Android TV — the platform that powers a majority of smart televisions sold in India.
Background of the Case
The investigation was initiated in 2020 after several industry players, including local smart TV manufacturers, accused Google of imposing restrictive agreements. These agreements allegedly prevented OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) from modifying the Android TV operating system or pre-installing competing apps and services.
The complaint was modeled after earlier concerns raised in relation to Google’s Android mobile OS, which had already led to a hefty fine and behavioral remedies in India.
The CCI's preliminary findings had suggested that Google's agreements limited manufacturers' ability to offer alternatives, such as Amazon’s Fire TV or custom versions of Android. This was viewed as an abuse of Google’s market power, potentially harming both competition and consumer choice.
Terms of the Settlement
While the full details of the settlement remain confidential, sources familiar with the matter revealed that Google agreed to make several voluntary changes to its Android TV licensing agreements. These changes reportedly include:
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Allowing TV manufacturers more freedom to pre-install competing apps and services.
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Easing restrictions on the development and use of forked Android versions on smart TVs.
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Introducing a compliance framework to ensure that third-party app stores and services are not blocked.
Importantly, the settlement allows Google to avoid financial penalties, though it is expected to be monitored for future compliance.
Industry and Regulatory Response
The CCI welcomed the resolution, emphasizing that it sets a precedent for how digital platforms should maintain fair competition in emerging technology markets. "This development reflects our commitment to fostering a level playing field and protecting innovation in the smart device ecosystem," said a senior CCI official on condition of anonymity.
Tech analysts say the move could shake up the Indian smart TV sector, currently dominated by Android TV-powered devices. "It opens the door for new players and ecosystems to flourish, especially as Indian brands push for more autonomy in software design," said Neha Gupta, a senior tech policy analyst at iTech Insights.
Google’s Position
In a brief statement, Google said it was "pleased to resolve the matter cooperatively" and reiterated its commitment to the Indian market. "We remain focused on working constructively with regulators and providing partners and consumers with the best experience possible," the company said.
Implications for Big Tech in India
This resolution is seen as another step in India's assertive regulatory approach toward Big Tech, following previous actions against Google, Apple, and Meta. With the digital economy booming and smart devices proliferating, regulators are under pressure to prevent monopolistic behavior and ensure consumer choice.
Legal experts suggest the case could serve as a model for future settlements, blending regulatory oversight with flexible solutions instead of outright penalties.
As India's digital landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how tech giants adapt — and whether self-regulation and cooperative resolutions can become the norm rather than the exception.