Byju's, the leading educational technology company, has confirmed that its main learning app has been removed from the Google Play Store. Sources within the industry suggest that the removal was prompted by unpaid dues to Amazon Web Services (AWS), which had been providing essential infrastructure and services for the app. However, other Byju's apps, such as the Byju's Premium Learning app and the Exam Prep app, remain available on the Play Store. Apple users can still download the original Byju's Learning app from the App Store. Despite the removal from the Play Store, Byju's services continue to face disruptions, as AWS has reportedly halted the app’s services due to the outstanding payments.
The company’s financial affairs are now being managed by an Insolvency Resolution Professional (IRP), who has been appointed to oversee the company’s insolvency proceedings. Byju's Learning app, which previously offered courses in subjects such as math, science, and social studies for students in grades 4 to 12, as well as preparation materials for competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and IAS, has faced significant financial and operational challenges. In addition to these developments, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has initiated insolvency proceedings against Byju's following a petition filed by Glass Trust, a debt-laden trustee acting on behalf of investors.
The company’s troubles deepened when Byju's US subsidiary, Byju’s Alpha, accused founder Byju Ravindran, co-founder Divya Gokulnath, and former executive Anita Kishore of misappropriating $533 million in funds. Ravindran has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them part of a “planned conspiracy.” Despite these serious issues, the founders of Byju’s have refused to shut down the company and have hinted at the launch of a new iteration, "Byju's 3.0," in an attempt to regain financial stability and restore their position in the market.