The outcome of the trial will largely depend on whether Google's deals excluded healthy competition. Google argues that its deals are not exclusive and users can easily switch to a competitor. However, if it's proven that most users don't switch, this could strengthen the government's case. If Google loses, it could be forced to change its contracts with Apple and give Android users a choice of search engine when setting up their devices. A worst-case scenario could see Google banned from bidding for the default position on devices, potentially increasing the market share of rivals.
Key takeaways:
- The Department of Justice (DOJ) has accused Google of using anticompetitive practices to maintain its online search dominance and is taking the tech giant to court.
- The trial will focus on whether Google's deals with Apple and other device manufacturers to be their default search engines were illegal.
- Key claims in the case include Google harming competitors through exclusionary agreements and acting anticompetitively with its search ad tool Search Ads 360.
- If Google loses, it could be forced to change its contracts with Apple and potentially face a structural breakup, particularly in relation to its search advertising component.