Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Media watchdog to investigate Google's alleged abuse of Android Auto app
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By Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
Korea's top media watchdog is investigating allegations that Google violated the country's Telecommunications Business Act by blocking non-Google Play users from accessing the Android Auto application. This comes just months after Google came under fire for announcing plans to charge a 30 percent commission on in-app purchases in Korea.
Android Auto is Google's vehicle infotainment platform used by most local carmakers, such as Hyundai Motor, Kia and Renault Samsung.
But Google allegedly blocked access to its platform for users of other online markets like One Store and Samsung Galaxy Store.
The Korea Communications Commission (KCC) will investigate if there was any discrimination against non-Google app store platforms. If Google is found to have violated the act, the KCC could launch a full-fledged investigation. The Telecommunications Business Act bans any initiatives that harm fair competition or reduce consumer benefits.
Tmap, the country's top navigation application, can be downloaded on both Google Play Store and OneStore. However, the application downloaded from OneStore does not run on Android Auto.
“The applications could be blocked at any given time suppressing local content developers and initiating endless abuse. This is abuse of market dominance and an unfair business practice,” said Yang Jung-sook, an independent lawmaker on the Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee.
Previously, Google was fined 120 million euros (164 billion won) in Italy for blocking competitor applications from working in Android Auto.
Since 2016, the KCC has been investigating whether Google forced smartphone makers, such as Samsung Electronics, to use its Android OS to establish its exclusive position in the market.
Google plans to introduce a 30 percent commission on all in-app digital goods purchased in the country later this year.
Last year, there were accusations that Google prevented local firms from introducing games on rival operating services, in addition to pressuring them to pay for ad sales and its plan to charge a service fee for all in-app transactions. Those accusations are also under investigation by local regulators.
“Large global content providers such as Google and Apple have been given a slap on the wrist in terms of punishments. I don't think it will be much different this time around. There needs to be stricter regulations and punishment for global firms that violate fair trade competition just like local firms,” an industry official said.