Google faces major issues in Russia

What exactly is at stake?

Yandex sues Google

Google provides Android completely free under certain conditions. However, if a manufacturer wants to use the Google Play store, they must also install a suite of Google services on their devices — including the Google search engine, Chrome browser, and several other apps. This practice displeased Russian authorities, particularly the creators of the search engine Yandex, who accused Google of unlawfully pre-installing its own apps and the Play Store on Android smartphones.

Yandex seeks to have its own software and virtual app store included in Russian smartphones — although the latter has a poor reputation due to the large number of viruses. The Russian court sided with the plaintiff and ordered Google to change its policies.

There is no clear decision yet on how Google will respond. The company has until November 18 to modify its agreements with partners operating in Russia.

Google loses legal battle with Yandex in Russia

Summary

A Russian court has ruled in favor of Yandex, which accused Google of unlawfully pre-installing its own apps and the Play Store on Android devices. While Google offers the Android OS for free, using Google Play requires manufacturers to also install Google search, Chrome, and other services.

Google has until November 18 to revise its contracts with Russian partners. Yandex wants its software and app store included in Russian smartphones — although the latter is poorly regarded due to widespread malware.