PhonePe just launched free App Store to rival Google Play Store: Why it’s special

PhonePe just launched free App Store to rival Google Play Store: Why it’s special
HIGHLIGHTS

The Indus Appstore offers cost-free in-app purchases.

PhonePe will not be charging any listing fees from app developers during the first year of listing.

PhonePe suggests that developers can access analytics and AI-powered monitoring of important details in real-time.

Looks like there’s another player in the market trying to become an alternative to the Google Play Store. And this time it’s the payments app, PhonePe. PhonePe is set to launch its made-in-India app store called “Indus Appstore”. Essentially, with Indus, PhonePe is planning to put an end to Google’s monoplane in the App Store market and provide Indian smartphone users with an Indian alternative. 

Also read: PhonePe Lets You Pay Income Tax Seamlessly, Thanks To PayMate Collaboration

On the occasion, CPO and Co-Founder of Indus Appstore, Akash Dongre said, “India is poised to have over 1 billion smartphone users by 2026 offering us a massive opportunity to build a new-age, localized Android app store.” 

Akash Dongre at the Indus Appstore launch
Akash Dongre at the Indus Appstore launch

To make its product more lucrative, PhonePe is offering more perks than usual. This includes cost-free in-app purchases. If you’re a Google Play Store or Apple App Store user, you must be aware of the extra money that you have to shed which can reach up to 30%. In addition to this, PhonePe seems to have big plans with Indus as they are calling it a new pathway for developers to draw Indian Android users who primarily use the Google App Store.

As mentioned, it’s not just a sweet deal for the users but also for the developers. PhonePe will not be charging any listing fees from app developers during the first year of listing. After that, they will just have to pay a nominal fee. Plus, they can list their apps in 12 Indian languages for better reach. The support team will also be based in India. 

Also read: PhonePe Could Launch Its Own App Store In India And Here Are The Hurdles It May Face

Google Play Store displaying various applications
Google Play Store displaying various applications

Akash Dongre further says, “Indus Appstore hopes to provide app developers with a credible alternative to the Google Play Store – one that is more localized and offers better app discovery and consumer engagement.”

Further, PhonePe suggests that developers can access analytics and AI-powered monitoring of important details in real-time. And finally, for the new apps that come onboard, Indus has a launch pad that allows for better visibility. 

Let’s wait and see if this PhonePe Play Store can actually come close to Google.

Mustafa Khan

Mustafa Khan

Mustafa is new on the block and is a tech geek who is currently working with Digit as a News Writer. He tests the new gadgets that come on board and writes for the news desk. He has found his way with words and you can count on him when in need of tech advice. No judgement. He is based out of Delhi, he’s your person for good photos, good food recommendations, and to know about anything GenZ. View Full Profile

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