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As Google Turns 25, It Faces The Biggest Tech Antitrust Trial Of A Generation

Sep 11, 2023 - forbes.com
Google is set to face a historic antitrust lawsuit from the U.S. government, questioning its dominance of internet search. The case, U.S. et al v. Google, focuses on Google's contracts with device makers, particularly its lucrative deal with Apple, which makes Google the default search engine on iOS devices. The Department of Justice alleges these agreements maintain Google's monopoly in general search services by raising user switching costs and diminishing rivals' ability to compete.

The trial comes amid growing scrutiny of Google's business practices, with the company also facing a separate antitrust lawsuit over its digital advertising operation and online auction process. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the tech industry, potentially leading to damages or restructuring of the company. The trial is expected to last 10 weeks and will feature testimony from executives from Google, Apple, Microsoft, and other tech companies.

Key takeaways:

  • Google is facing a historic legal battle against the U.S. government over allegations of antitrust violations, particularly regarding its dominance in internet search.
  • The lawsuit, filed in 2020, focuses on Google's contracts with device makers, including a lucrative deal with Apple that makes Google the default search engine on iOS devices.
  • The trial is expected to last 10 weeks and will determine if Google is liable for breaking antitrust law. If found guilty, another trial will be held to decide remedies, which could include paying damages or restructuring the company.
  • This case is part of a larger trend of big tech companies facing increased scrutiny from antitrust regulators and lawmakers, with companies like Facebook parent Meta and Amazon also under the spotlight.
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