Speech Central Does Not Sell Directly to Android Users
As outlined in our Support Policy, Speech Central does not sell products or services directly to end users on Android. All purchases are processed through Google Play, which acts as the merchant of record.
When a user completes a purchase, Google issues the invoice in its own name. Google is listed as the seller, collects payment, charges applicable taxes, and applies its own service fee. From a legal and financial standpoint, the transaction occurs between the user and Google — not between the user and Speech Central.
Only Google Can Legally Issue Refunds
Because Google is the seller of record, it is the only legal entity authorized to approve and process refunds. When a refund is granted, Google reverses the payment directly to the user.
In rare situations, users may be directed by Google to contact the developer for refund assistance. While Google technically allows developers to initiate refunds using a valid order number, the refund is still processed by Google — not by the developer.
Importantly, developers do not have access to user billing information such as:
- User names
- Payment details
- Order receipts (unless voluntarily provided by the user)
Only Google, as the seller, holds this information.
Why Speech Central Does Not Initiate Refunds
1. Google’s Refund Policy Is Already Generous
Based on available sales data, approximately 5% of total Google Play purchases of Speech Central are refunded. This is a relatively high percentage in digital distribution and indicates that Google approves the majority of refund requests.
If a user is redirected to the developer, it typically means the request did not meet Google’s refund criteria. We are not informed of the reason and have no insight into Google’s internal decision process.
2. Legal Compliance Depends on the Seller of Record
If refund rights are legally required in a particular country, Google is obligated to comply. As developers, we do not have visibility into:
- The user’s verified billing country
- The legal jurisdiction governing the transaction
- Applicable consumer protection laws
Processing or declining refunds independently could create legal exposure. For this reason, we do not approve or deny refund requests. We clearly inform users that only Google, as the seller, is authorized to handle them.
3. The Refund Procedure Requires Information We Do Not Possess
To initiate a developer-assisted refund, the user must provide the Google Play order number from the official receipt. This information:
- Is not visible to developers
- Is often difficult for users to locate
- Requires additional back-and-forth communication
In practice, this process creates unnecessary friction, user frustration, and disproportionate administrative overhead for a small, one-time digital payment.
What Users Should Do If They Need a Refund
If you purchased Speech Central through Google Play and require a refund, please submit your request directly through Google Play support:
- Visit the Google Play Order History
- Select the relevant transaction
- Choose “Request a refund”
Google reviews each request according to its policies and applicable local laws.
Clear Responsibility Protects Both Users and Developers
Speech Central focuses on product development, support, and continuous improvement of accessibility features. Google Play handles billing, invoicing, taxation, and refunds.
This separation ensures:
- Compliance with international consumer protection laws
- Secure handling of payment data
- Transparent accounting and taxation
For refund-related matters, Google Play remains the sole authorized party.