PhonePe Launches Indus Appstore Developer Platform, Promising Zero Fees and Better Support for Indian Developers
A Breakthrough Moment for Indian App Developers?
In a significant development that could potentially alter the mobile app ecosystem in India, PhonePe has launched its much-awaited Indus Appstore Developer Platform. This move comes at a time when many Indian businesses and startups have grown frustrated with Google’s Android operating system, which dominates the market but also charges exorbitant fees to developers.
PhonePe’s Ambitious Plan
Walmart-backed fintech startup PhonePe aims to provide app developers in India with a more localized and better-supported alternative to the Google Play store. With its newly launched Indus Appstore Developer Platform, the company promises zero platform fees for the first year, with nominal costs thereafter. Moreover, it will not levy any commission on in-app purchases, unlike Google’s 15-30% take rate.
A "Made-in-India" App Store
The Bengaluru-headquartered startup has collaborated with phonemakers to distribute its app store and has incorporated several features that cater specifically to Indian users. These include support for third-party payment providers, 12 Indian languages, and a login system based on phone numbers. PhonePe’s Indus Appstore Developer Platform is the culmination of years of effort by the company, which has amassed over 450 million registered users on its eponymous payments app.
A Relief for Local Developers
PhonePe’s move is expected to bring relief to local developers who have been dissatisfied with Google’s delayed responses and U.S.-based operating hours. The company has put in place an India-based team to provide support to developers, ensuring that their concerns are addressed promptly.
Google’s Dominance in India
Google’s Android mobile operating system runs on more than 95% of all smartphones in India. However, the company’s dominance has not come without criticism and regulatory intervention. In recent years, Google has faced two antitrust fines in India and was forced to make several changes to its business agreements with phonemakers.
PhonePe’s Ambitions
The Indus Appstore Developer Platform is just one of several initiatives that PhonePe has launched in recent times as it expands into new categories. The startup, valued at $12 billion, launched an e-commerce app this year and unveiled Share.Market, a platform that enables users to open trading accounts and invest in stocks, mutual funds, and ETFs.
A Credible Alternative
According to Akash Dongre, co-founder and chief product officer of Indus Appstore, "Indus Appstore hopes to provide app developers a credible alternative to the Google Play store — one that is more localized and offers better app discovery and consumer engagement."
Regulatory Scrutiny on Google
The Indian government has been increasing its scrutiny of Google’s operations in the country. In recent months, there have been reports of the government considering stricter regulations for foreign tech giants operating in India.
A New Era for Indian App Developers?
PhonePe’s Indus Appstore Developer Platform could potentially mark a new era for Indian app developers. With zero fees and better support from a local company, developers may finally have a more favorable platform to create and monetize their apps.
The Future of Mobile Apps in India
As the mobile app ecosystem in India continues to evolve, PhonePe’s Indus Appstore Developer Platform could be a game-changer for the industry. Only time will tell whether this move will disrupt Google’s dominance in the country or not.