We are approaching nearly two months into the pivotal antitrust case involving Google, a landmark legal battle that stands as one of the most significant in the realm of tech antitrust since the 1990s Microsoft trial. As the proceedings unfold, the revelations continue to capture attention.
In our recent overview, we delved into Google’s substantial $26.3 billion expenditure in 2021 to establish itself as the default search engine across various platforms, as well as its attempt to have Chrome preinstalled on iPhones. In the subsequent weeks, further insights into Google’s internal operations have emerged, shedding light on lucrative search queries, revenue-sharing agreements with Android original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and the reasons behind Expedia’s grievances with Google.
Before exploring these details, it’s essential to understand the significance of the Google vs. U.S. antitrust case. The government contends that Google utilizes its platforms and partnerships to stifle competition in both search and advertising, thereby impeding rivals from accessing crucial data to enhance their products.
Should Judge Amit Mehta rule against Google, the search giant might be compelled to alter its conduct and share its APIs with third-party developers. Additionally, it could face restrictions on engaging in anticompetitive and exclusive deals with smartphone and computer manufacturers, as well as wireless carriers. The potential outcome may necessitate Google to share a substantial portion or all of its collected data with other search engines, enabling them to enhance their products and attract a broader user base. The Department of Justice emphasizes that Google acquires 16 times more data daily than Bing.
Enforcers aim to demonstrate that antitrust laws remain relevant, emphasizing that even though Google holds a dominant position on the internet, it is not exempt from U.S. law.
The resolution of the Google case may have a ripple effect on other significant Big Tech legal battles. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a lawsuit against Amazon in September, accusing it of using anticompetitive and unfair strategies to maintain an illegal monopoly. The DOJ has been investigating Apple for years, examining the company’s policies regarding third-party apps on its devices and potential favoritism towards its own products. Ongoing disputes include the FTC’s call for Facebook to divest Instagram and WhatsApp.
Notably, the current antitrust trial is not Google’s sole legal challenge. The company recently settled a separate antitrust lawsuit with Match Group, a dating site, and is currently in trial with Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite. Epic Games aims to demonstrate that Google engages in anticompetitive practices concerning its Android app store, Google Play, and its commission structure.
Now, let’s delve into the latest developments!
Recently, Judge Amit Mehta made public a list offering insights into Google’s most lucrative search queries. This list, featuring the top revenue-generating search terms for the week of September 22, 2018, provides a glimpse into the financial impact of specific search terms. Unfortunately, details such as revenue per search term and the number of queries for each term were redacted. Additionally, a separate list of popular search terms ordered by queries (not revenue) was also redacted.
