Google’s Antitrust Troubles: A Fight for Its Chrome Browser and Business Model

Google has been under fire recently, with multiple organizations accusing the tech giant of anticompetitive practices. As a result, a trial is set for next year, where Google will likely be forced to sell off its Chrome browser and change its business practices.

The Japanese FTC’s Cease and Desist Order

The Japanese Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has been particularly vocal in its criticism of Google, sending the company a cease and desist order. The FTC claims that Google is restricting fair competition, and has taken action against the company in the past for allegedly thwarting Yahoo Japan’s ability to profit from targeted search ads.

Google’s Proposed Solutions

In response to the allegations, Google has proposed splitting search engines on iPhone and iPad, as well as shortening the duration of certain restrictions due to the fast-paced nature of the tech industry. The company has also offered to present counterarguments at the hearing.

Apple’s Support for Google

Interestingly, Apple has decided to defend Google in the antitrust case, citing the company’s agreement to keep Google’s search engine as the default option on Safari in exchange for large sums of money.

The Trial Ahead

The trial next year is likely to be a highly contested one, with Google fighting to protect its Chrome browser and business model. While some argue that the company’s success is due to its own efforts, others claim that Google’s dominance is a result of anticompetitive practices.

A Changing Business Landscape

With multiple organizations around the globe breathing down Google’s neck, it’s unclear what the future holds for the company. Will it be able to escape with even a semblance of its current business model, or will it be forced to make significant changes?

[Image: Many users like Safari for its efficiency with Apple silicon. | Image credit — PhoneArena]

In the meantime, Google remains committed to user choice in Japan and is preparing its counterarguments for the hearing. The tech industry is eagerly awaiting the outcome of this trial, which will have significant implications for the future of search engines and online competition.