US may seek to break up Google monopoly

news@appleinsider.com (Wesley Hilliard)
2024-08-13 21:14:04
appleinsider.com

Google on the Apple App Store

The US DOJ ruled Google is an illegal monopolist, which could result in breaking up the parent company Alphabet or requiring data sharing with rivals while undercutting Google Gemini’s advantage.

Google is a word synonymous with searching the web, and with good reason. It has dominated the space for decades and uses that dominant position to ensure competitors can never quite catch up.

At least, that is the ruling from the United States Department of Justice. And, according to sources speaking to Bloomberg, a breakup may be needed.

There are numerous points in time where Google could have reached monopoly status. Some say it’s way back when people started using the word “Google” to mean search, while others look to the Alphabet rebrand in 2015.

Either way, Google is massive. While Google Search and text search ads are the center of this problem, they aren’t the only portions of the company under scrutiny.

The anonymous sources suggest that Android could be a primary target for divestment from Alphabet. The operating system is licensed by the company but requires things like Chrome and Gmail to be pre-installed and un-deletable, for example.

Alphabet also contains products like YouTube, Waze, and the new Google-made AI Gemini. It isn’t clear exactly how far a breakup would go or which companies would go where, but a divestment of Android could include more than just the operating system.

Another option could be requiring Google to provide access to its search data. The EU Digital Markets Act already requires this of Google, and a US requirement could be even more impactful for competitors.

Of course, there’s also the option of breaking up Alphabet and requiring search data shares. No official decisions have been made in the case.

Whatever happens, it is clear that exclusive contracts like the one between Google and Apple won’t be possible anymore. Which, in turn, has pushed Apple to search for more services revenue from sources like Patreon subscriptions.

Start your free Amazon Prime trial
today and unlock unlimited streaming and more!

Source Link

Support Techcratic

If you find value in our blend of original insights (Techcratic articles and Techs Got To Eat), up-to-date daily curated articles, and the extensive technical work required to keep everything running smoothly, consider supporting Techcratic with Bitcoin. Your support helps me, as a solo operator, continue delivering high-quality content while managing all the technical aspects, from server maintenance to future updates and improvements. I am committed to continually enhancing the site and staying at the forefront of trends to provide the best possible experience. Your generosity and commitment are deeply appreciated. Thank you!

Bitcoin Address:

bc1qlszw7elx2qahjwvaryh0tkgg8y68enw30gpvge

Please verify this address before sending any funds to ensure your donation is directed correctly.

Bitcoin QR Code

Your contribution is vital in supporting my efforts to deliver valuable content and manage the technical aspects of the site. To donate, simply scan the QR code below. Your generosity allows me to keep providing insightful articles and maintaining the server infrastructure that supports them.

Privacy and Security Disclaimer

No Personal Information Collected: We do not collect any personal information or transaction details when you make a donation via Bitcoin. The Bitcoin address provided is used solely for receiving donations.
Data Privacy: We do not store or process any personal data related to your Bitcoin transactions. All transactions are processed directly through the Bitcoin network, ensuring your privacy.
Security Measures: We utilize industry-standard security practices to protect our Bitcoin address and ensure that your donations are received securely. However, we encourage you to exercise caution and verify the address before sending funds.
Contact Us: If you have any concerns or questions about our donation process, please contact us via the Techcratic Contact form. We are here to assist you.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, Techcratic may earn from qualifying purchases.

Tags: Apple