Google Expands Store In India And Faces Global Play Store Challenges

Google has made a big move in India by launching its official online Google Store. At the same time, the company is facing serious challenges in the global market because of its Play Store policies. These two developments show how Google is trying to grow its hardware business while also dealing with legal and regulatory issues.Google Store Launch in India

For the first time, Indian users can now buy Google products directly from the official Google Store website. This includes Pixel phones, smartwatches, and earbuds. Earlier, people in India could only buy these products from platforms like Flipkart or from third-party retailers.

The new direct store is expected to give customers more trust and convenience. They can now order directly from Google, without worrying about fake products or limited stock. This move also shows Google’s growing focus on India as a major smartphone and technology market.

Google has also started manufacturing Pixel devices in India. Local production is seen as a big step in supporting the “Make in India” initiative. It will also help Google reduce costs, manage supply chains better, and compete with rivals like Apple and Samsung, who already have a strong base in the Indian market.Physical Google Stores Around the World

Apart from the online store, Google has also been expanding its physical Google Store locations. The company opened its first retail shop in New York in 2021. Later, more outlets were launched in Brooklyn, Mountain View, Boston, Illinois, Santa Monica, and Austin.

These physical stores allow customers to experience Google’s products directly before buying. Shoppers can test devices like Pixel phones, Nest smart speakers, Chromecast, and Fitbit wearables. Experts say these stores help Google build a brand image similar to Apple Stores, where customer service and product experience play a key role.Legal Trouble with Google Play Store

While the hardware business is expanding, Google’s software ecosystem is facing legal pressure. Recently, a U.S. appeals court upheld a ruling in favor of Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite. The court said that Google’s Play Store practices are anti-competitive and create a monopoly.

This means that Google will now have to allow third-party app stores and other billing options for users. For years, developers complained about Google charging high commissions on Play Store purchases. Now, with this ruling, developers may get more freedom, and users could see more payment choices in the future.Play Store Issues in Europe and India

In Europe, Google is already under pressure because of strict digital rules. To avoid more fines, the company has proposed changes in its Play Store policies. These changes would allow app developers to guide users toward external payment methods instead of depending only on Google’s billing system.

In India, there was also a legal case about Google’s billing policy. The Supreme Court of India has put a stay on a High Court order in the case involving Testbook Edu Solutions. This means the case is on hold for now, but the issue of Play Store billing remains unresolved in the country.What It Means for Google

Google’s situation looks mixed at the moment. On one side, the company is expanding its hardware sales and strengthening its presence in India. The local Google Store launch and Pixel production are strong steps to win Indian customers.

On the other side, Google is struggling with legal battles over its Play Store policies. These cases could change how the Play Store works worldwide. If Google is forced to allow more options, it could lose billions of dollars in commission fees.

For Indian customers, the direct Google Store is a positive step. They will now have easier access to Google products. For developers, the Play Store cases may bring more flexibility and better earnings in the future.

Google’s journey ahead will depend on how it balances its hardware growth with the challenges in its software and app store business.