Tuesday, 1 April 2025
28.8 C
Singapore
33.2 C
Thailand
20.9 C
Indonesia
28.1 C
Philippines

Google offers remedies for monopoly concerns after DOJ demands major changes

Google offers remedies for antitrust violations, proposing flexible contracts after the DOJ called for the divestiture of Chrome and Android restrictions.

Google has proposed new measures to address accusations of antitrust violations brought by the US Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ has urged significant action, including the potential sale of Google Chrome and restrictions on Googleโ€™s ability to prioritise its search engine on Android devices. The proposal follows an August ruling by Judge Amit Mehta of the US District Court for the District of Columbia, which found Google guilty of violating Section 2 of the Sherman Act. The judge labelled Google โ€œa monopolist.โ€

Despite disagreeing with the courtโ€™s decision, Google submitted its proposal on Friday night, offering adjustments to its collaborations with browser companies and Android device manufacturers.

Google outlines flexible contracts with partners

In a blog post summarising the proposal, Lee-Anne Mulholland, Googleโ€™s Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, explained the companyโ€™s approach. The proposal suggests browser companies, such as Apple and Mozilla, could continue partnering with Google Search while having the freedom to change default settings across platforms.

For instance, browsers could assign different default search engines for devices like iPhones and iPads or switch providers for different browsing modes. Additionally, browsers can change their default search provider once every 12 months.

Google also proposed giving Android device manufacturers more options. These include preloading multiple search engines on devices and offering any Google app independently of preloading Google Search or Chrome.

Google appeals decision, sets timeline for revisions

Google plans to appeal Judge Mehtaโ€™s ruling before a hearing scheduled for April. The tech giant intends to submit a revised proposal on March 7.

Mulholland criticised the DOJโ€™s demands, describing them as โ€œoverboardโ€ and driven by an โ€œinterventionist agenda.โ€ She argued that the DOJโ€™s proposal extends far beyond the courtโ€™s decision, which primarily addressed Googleโ€™s agreements with partners to distribute its search engine.

While the outcome remains uncertain, the case represents a pivotal moment for Google and its dominance in search technology. The companyโ€™s proposal reflects its effort to avoid drastic remedies such as divestiture while offering partners more freedom in their contracts.

Hot this week

How Chinese EVs are powering Southeast Asia’s ‘Green Revolution’?

Learn how Chinese EV makers are revolutionising Southeast Asiaโ€™s automotive market with innovative strategies, sustainable solutions, and rapid growth.

Apple has no plans for a small iPhone

Apple has no plans to make another iPhone Mini. Was it a missed opportunity, or was the compact iPhone just released at the wrong time?

Fujifilm unveils GFX100RF: A 102MP medium format compact camera

Fujifilm announces the GFX100RF, a 102MP medium-format compact camera. It is available for pre-order at S$7,999, and early buyers will receive free gifts.

AI-generated Studio Ghibli art raises fresh copyright concerns

OpenAIโ€™s AI image tool sparks controversy after generating Studio Ghibli-style art, raising new copyright concerns. Legal experts weigh in.

China-aligned hacker group FamousSparrow resurfaces in cyberattacks

ESET finds China-linked hacker group FamousSparrow still active with upgraded tools, targeting institutions in the US, Mexico and Honduras.

Vivo challenges iPhone 16 Pro Max with X200 Ultraโ€™s video stability

Vivoโ€™s X200 Ultra teaser compares video stability with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, promising top-tier camera upgrades and advanced stabilisation.

Apple Intelligence now supports English (Singapore) with the latest update

Appleโ€™s latest update brings Apple Intelligence support for English (Singapore), making AI features more accessible without needing US English settings.

OpenAI secures US$40 billion in funding at US$300 billion valuation

OpenAI secures US$40B, reaching a US$300B valuation, to advance AI research and expand Stargate.

This tiny and affordable device upgrades any speaker with Wi-Fi streaming and hi-res audio

The Atonemo Streamplayer is a tiny, affordable device that adds Wi-Fi streaming and hi-res audio support to any speaker with a 3.5mm aux port.

Related Articles