State-backed app store in the works to consolidate government apps

The government has approached major tech companies, including Google and Apple, as well as smartphone manufacturers, to facilitate the app store's deployment

The Government of India is preparing to launch its own app store, GOV.in, designed to centralize all its official applications under one platform. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), this initiative aims to streamline access to public services and welfare programs. The government has approached major tech companies, including Google and Apple, as well as smartphone manufacturers, to facilitate the app store's deployment.

The plan is for GOV.in to be available for download directly from popular platforms like Google Play and the Apple App Store, with a further request for the app suite to be pre-installed on new smartphones. Officials believe that bundling these apps together into one accessible platform will improve user engagement, making it easier for Indian citizens to interact with government services.

Resistance from tech giants and legal implications

Despite the potential benefits, the initiative has met significant opposition from major tech companies. Google, the leader in India’s smartphone market through its Android operating system, and Apple have expressed reluctance to comply. Both companies have control over their app stores, charging developers a 30% commission on revenue generated through app sales and in-app purchases. The introduction of a state-run app store could diminish their control and, ultimately, their revenue share.

The Indian government, however, is prepared to face this resistance. Reports suggest that the government may take legal action if these companies refuse to cooperate. This stance is in line with India's history of enforcing stricter regulations on tech companies, as seen in its 2020 TikTok ban and its ongoing legal battles with Meta over privacy issues.

While India’s request is not entirely unprecedented—Apple permitted Russian users to install government-approved apps in 2021—the move has the potential to reshape how government services are delivered digitally. If successful, the GOV.in app store could significantly enhance public access to digital services and improve security protocols. However, ongoing opposition from tech companies suggests that legal and regulatory challenges are likely.