Play Store Update: Google Reintroduces Delisted Indian Apps To Users

In a swift turnaround following widespread criticism , Google has reinstated several apps from Indian digital companies that it previously delisted from the Play Store. The move came after a wave of backlash from both users and industry stakeholders.

Among the reinstated apps are notable platforms like Shaadi.com, Naukri , 99acres , and Naukri Gulf , as confirmed by a recent check on the Play Store. Sanjeev Bikchandani, co-founder of Info Edge , one of the affected companies, expressed relief and appreciation for the reinstatement in a post on X.

"Many of the Info Edge apps are back on the Play Store. An effort very well led by Hitesh (Hitesh Oberoi) and the entire Info Edge team. People were up all night for this. Great crisis management," he shared.

The restoration follows a day of intense pressure on Google, with the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) leading the charge against the removal of Indian companies' apps. IAMAI demanded the immediate reinstatement of the delisted apps, highlighting the impact on both businesses and users.

Google had initially delisted over a dozen apps from major Indian digital companies, including Matrimony and Shaadi.com, citing violations of its payment policy. However, the move sparked controversy as it targeted apps that had been compliant with other app stores' payment policies.

The decision to restore the apps marks a significant reversal by Google, which had previously announced its intention to take action against developers who refused to comply with its payment policies. Among the affected apps were platforms like Altt, Stage, Aha streaming services, Truly Madly and Quack Quack dating apps, Kuku FM audio content platform, and FRND social networking app.