#e4mExclusive:  Dream11, WinZO, Zupee, others delisted from Apple App Store post gaming rule rollout

In a sweeping move following the implementation of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act on May 1, Apple has taken down several real money gaming (RMG) applications from its App Store in India, impacting major platforms such as Dream11, MPL, Zupee, WinZO and My11Circle, among others.

The takedown comes as the new regulatory framework governing online gaming begins to take effect, triggering compliance-related actions across the digital ecosystem. While the specifics of Apple’s decision-making process remain unclear, industry stakeholders believe the move is a precautionary step to align with evolving legal requirements.

Queries sent to Apple did not elicit an immediate response. This article will be updated once the company shares a statement.

However, sources told e4m that a miscommunication led to the removal of legitimate applications, which are likely to be back on the app store soon. 

According to multiple industry experts, the abrupt removal of apps has created uncertainty for both operators and users. “The lack of clear implementation guidelines has led platform intermediaries to take a conservative stance. Apple’s action appears to be a risk-avoidance measure rather than a definitive judgment on the legality of these apps,” said an anonymous policy expert tracking the sector.

Another executive from a gaming firm noted that the development could disrupt user acquisition and revenue flows. “The RMG ecosystem in India is highly dependent on mobile distribution channels. Any disruption at the app store level has immediate business implications,” the executive said on condition of anonymity.

Interestingly, at least one former RMG operator whose app was taken down claimed that it had already pivoted away from real money gaming prior to the enforcement of the new law. “We had consciously transitioned our platform to a non-RMG model in anticipation of regulatory changes. Despite this, our app has been removed, and we are currently engaging with Apple to seek reinstatement,” a company representative said.

The executive further raised concerns about inconsistencies in enforcement. “While legitimate and compliant platforms have been taken down, several illegitimate or impersonator apps continue to remain accessible on the App Store. This raises serious questions about the review and enforcement process,” the person added.

The broader industry is now closely watching how global tech platforms interpret and enforce India’s new gaming regulations. Legal experts suggest that clarity from both regulators and intermediaries will be crucial in the coming weeks to ensure a level playing field.

For now, the sudden removal of prominent gaming apps underscores the growing friction between regulatory oversight and platform governance in one of the world’s fastest-growing digital markets.

Dream11, WinZO, Zupee did not immediately comment on the development but have confirmed that their apps were taken down from Apple App store.