Food delivery apps Zomato and Swiggy have received notices from Google for their in-app gamification features that allegedly violate the tech giant’s Play Store guidelines
Google recently removed Paytm from the Play Store as it violated the guidelines. Now, it looks like both popular food delivery apps, Zomato and Swiggy are under the radar. The apps have been reportedly given a noticed by the search giant for violating the Play Store guidelines. This is regarding the gamification techniques that are used by both platforms.
MUMBAI | BENGALURU: Food delivery apps Swiggy and Zomato have received notices from Google stating that the in-app gamification feature used by both platforms violate its Play Store guidelines, multiple sources told. Zomato confirmed the development and termed the notice “unfair”
The in-app gamification feature was withdrawn by Swiggy after the notice, but the company has declined to comment further on the issue. A separate query sent to Google remains unanswered. We will update the story as and when it responds.
Of late, Google has been facing backlash from Indian startup ecosystem for a new policy that requires apps with subscription bundling in education, health and fitness and other digital products and services to share 30% revenue.
Various companies are trying to cash in on the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) and have added gamification features to woo customers, enhance engagement and boost sales
Many Indian startups have raised concerns around this move, saying Google cannot force Indian app developers / owners to sell digital services by compulsorily using its billing system, and giving the US-based company a 30 per cent fee on each transaction.
Many founders also believe that India needs a local app store to provide more choice to consumers.
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https://ashivamchoudharyblogger.wordpress.com/2020/09/25/rejection/
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