CCI closes antitrust probe into Google's real-money gaming app policies

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has terminated its antitrust investigation against Google regarding its handling of real-money gaming apps on the Play Store platform. The decision concludes a matter that had drawn significant regulatory scrutiny following the watchdog's preliminary finding that Google may have contravened provisions of the Competition Act concerning abuse of dominance.

The CCI's investigation had been initiated after the regulator determined there was prima facie evidence suggesting Google violated competition law through its policies governing real-money gaming applications. The November 2024 order for a detailed probe had indicated potential anti-competitive conduct in how Google managed app distribution on its dominant Android platform.

The closure of the inquiry suggests the CCI found insufficient evidence to proceed with formal action against the technology giant, or that the matter was otherwise resolved. The development is significant given heightened regulatory scrutiny of major technology companies' app store practices across South Asia.

Google's Play Store policies, particularly regarding payment systems and app eligibility criteria, have been subject to ongoing regulatory examination in multiple jurisdictions. The CCI's decision on the gaming app matter reflects the complex balance regulators maintain between addressing potential anti-competitive practices and acknowledging platform operators' legitimate business interests.