The Daily Brief Android on trial
29 snips
Aug 12, 2025 The discussion dives into Google's ongoing antitrust battle over Android payments and what it means for their dominance in India. It highlights the devastating impact of extreme heat on rural farmers and their livelihoods. The struggle against climate change is emphasized, revealing the urgent need for investment in non-agricultural jobs and better infrastructure. Strategies for coping with these challenges are also explored, shedding light on how families adapt in an increasingly harsh environment.
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Android As A Platform Gatekeeper
- Android is the platform for app value and Google controls the mall, security, payments and apps.
- This gives Google vast control over India's smartphone ecosystem.
GPBS Forces High Developer Commissions
- Google required paid apps to use GPBS, forcing 15-30% commissions on in-app transactions.
- Developers lost flexibility to choose cheaper or in-house payment options.
Anti-Steering Rules Block Alternatives
- Google banned links or UI that steered users to external payments.
- That policy plugged developer workarounds and preserved Google's commission pipeline.