Google, Airtel in talks to bring carrier billing to Google Play in India

Android users in India might finally get carrier billing support in Google Play on at least one telecom operator.  According to a report in The Economic Times, Google is in talks with Airtel to allow the Android users pay for apps and other content in Google Play via their monthly bill rather than using a credit card. With just 2 percent credit card penetration, this move could trigger the rise of paid apps in the country.

Google and Airtel are said to be stuck at the revenue sharing specifics right now with Google asking 90 percent of the sale. Airtel is looking to get a better deal, noted ET.

This is not the first time we are hearing about the possible partnership between a telco and Google for operator billing. In the past, Uninor was supposed to launch Google Play carrier billing in the country but nothing materialised, so we are not getting our hopes up.

To remind you, Google Play direct operator billing is currently available in a total of 26 countries via 51 telecom operators.