Google has been pressuring Android apps developers to use its own Google Wallet platform with threats to remove their apps from the Android Market (recently renamed as Google Play) if they persist in using rival payment platforms.

Citing various sources within the mobile apps industry, the Reuters news agency suggested that Google is using its powerful position in the mobile apps market to promote it's in-house offering.

The argument in favour of standardising on a single payment platform for allAndroid Apps is that it would present a more uniform service to customers, and encourage a higher uptake of in-app payment services.

Google's Wallet service however also comes with higher transaction costs that some of the rival payment platforms.

In one email sent to a developer in late August, Google said the developer had 30 days to comply, otherwise the developer's apps would be "suspended" from Android Market. Reuters obtained a copy of the email this week.

"They told people that if they used other payment services they would be breaking the terms of use," said Si Shen, founder and chief executive of Papaya, a social gaming network on Android. "Whether it's right or wrong, we have to follow the rules."

On the web: Reuters