Summary
The largest tech monopoly trial since the late 1990s begins this week, as the Federal Trade Commission takes on Google. Here’s a summary of what the case involves and what we can expect.
Listen
Links
Transcript
It may not have the media attention that surrounded trials like OJ Simpson’s or Johnny Depp’s, but an even more important trial began this week. On Tuesday, the US Justice Department’s lawsuit against Google kicked off, starting the first major tech monopoly trial in over 20 years.
For Personal Tech Media, this is Two Minute Tech. I’m Jim Herman.
The US government alleges that Google engaged in illegal behavior to crush its competitors and become the world’s top search engine. Google contends it did not act illegally, but only in the best interests of consumers.
The trial centers around two types of activity that Google has used.
First, the government alleges that Google entered into agreements with makers of web browsers to stifle competition. For years, Google has paid browser makers like Apple and Mozilla to be the default search engine on their browsers. The government contends that these arrangements stifle competing search engines by making it more difficult for users to choose an alternate search provider.
Second, the government alleges that Google’s contracts with phone manufacturers also stifle competition. As part of the licensing for the Android operating system, phone makers must pre-install certain Google apps. The government says that pre-loading the apps discourages consumers from choosing alternate options. Google has maintained that its activity has legitimate purposes and enhances the experience for its users.
This trial is expected to take months, and if Google is found to have engaged in illegal behavior, the appeals and deciding what to do will take even longer.