CCI probe into Google’s Android TV malpractices comes to a settlement

In a breakthrough that could reshape how smart TVs operate in India, the Competition Commission of India has cleared a settlement with Google over long-standing allegations of monopolistic practices in the Android TV market. The decision concerns an antitrust case that questioned how much control the tech giant exerts over the devices millions of Indians use to stream content daily. Google was alleged to have compelled television manufacturers to agree to restrictive conditions in return for access to its Android TV operating system.

“Additionally, by waiving the need for valid Android Compatibility Commitments (ACC) for devices shipped into India that do not include Google apps, OEMs can now sell and develop incompatible Android devices without violating the Television App Distribution Agreement (TADA),” CCI said in the release.

This is the first case to be settled under the amended Competition Act, wherein settlement and commitment provisions were introduced in 2023. After receiving a complaint, CCI had ordered a detailed probe in 2021.

A key factor to the case was the allegation that Google “misused its dominant position by enforcing restrictive agreements on OEMs,” primarily by bundling the Play Store with Android TV and limiting manufacturers from using or developing rival platforms. The CCI stated these practices “curbed competition and placed unrelated obligations on Original Equipment Manufacturers… ultimately stifling innovation.”