A significant development has emerged in the long-standing debate surrounding Real Money Games (RMG) in India. Tech giant Google has now proposed allowing all legitimate Real Money Games on the Google Play Store.
Tech News: Google has finally taken a major step regarding the ongoing dispute and inconsistent policies surrounding the online Real Money Gaming (RMG) industry in India. The technology giant has sent a proposal to the Competition Commission of India (CCI), stating that it is now ready to host all legitimate Real Money Games on the Google Play Store and Google Ads platforms. This decision will not only pave the way for this rapidly growing sector but also provide equal opportunities for developers.
What is the whole matter?
In November 2024, WinZO Games Private Limited filed a complaint with the CCI alleging that Google only allows selected games such as Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) and Rummy on its Play Store, while other RMG apps are excluded without valid reasons. The CCI's investigation found that this behavior is anti-competitive and creates obstacles for new developers. Against this backdrop, Google has sent two major proposals to the CCI called "Play Commitment Proposal" and "Ads Commitment Proposal."
RMG Apps Will Get a Chance on Google Play
According to Google's new proposal, all legitimate RMG applications that comply with Indian laws will now have access to Google Play and the Google Ads platform. Google has also stated that it is developing a new business model based on developers' financial needs, transparency, and equal opportunity.
- Competition Will Get a Boost – When all RMG apps get equal access, it will foster healthy competition. Smaller developers will also get a chance compared to larger brands.
- Investment and Employment Will Get a Boost – The online gaming industry in India is expanding rapidly. This policy change will encourage new investors and startups.
- Transparency and Policy Stability – Google's move will bring policy stability and create a level playing field, which will strengthen technological innovation and transparency.
What are Real Money Games?
Real Money Games (RMG) are online games in which users play by wagering money and either win money or suffer losses. There are two types of RMG games in India:
- Skill-based Games: Such as Rummy, Fantasy Sports, etc., which are legally recognized in some states.
- Luck-based Games: Such as lotteries, slot games, which are mostly controlled and regulated by state governments.
Google's Proposal: What's Special?
- All self-declared legitimate RMGs will get a chance.
- Google will develop a new business model for developers.
- Apps that comply with Indian laws and regulatory guidelines will get priority.
- These apps will also get the opportunity to advertise on Google Ads.
India has become one of the fastest-growing gaming markets in the world. The Real Money Gaming market in India is estimated to reach $7 billion by 2025. In such a situation, this decision by Google will not only show a new path to Indian developers but can also prove helpful in making India a global gaming hub.
