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Today, the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) filed a lawsuit against Google under the Antimonopoly Act, alleging that the company restricted Android smartphone manufacturers from using alternative search services, thereby fostering monopolistic market conditions.
Among the allegations, the JFTC asserts that Google not only mandated the pre-installation of the Google Play Store on devices but also required manufacturers to pre-install applications such as Google Search and the Chrome browser, positioning them prominently on the default home screen to encourage immediate user engagement.
In its proposed measures, the JFTC demands that Google cease such monopolistic practices and undergo monitoring by an independent third-party organization. Over the next five years, this body will verify whether Google continues to impact fair market competition and submit annual reports to the JFTC.
Last December, the JFTC officially determined that Google had engaged in monopolistic behavior, prompting an investigation. Even earlier, similar scrutiny emerged in the United States and Europe, where regulatory authorities found Google guilty of market dominance. In the U.S., Google was even ordered to separate its Chrome browser business and present an actionable compliance plan—failing which, the breakup of the Android division might be enforced.
As part of Google’s proposed adjustments, the company has agreed to allow search engines provided by other companies, such as Apple’s Safari and Mozilla’s Firefox, to be set as default options across different platforms. Furthermore, OEM manufacturers will be permitted to choose whether to pre-install Google apps, including the Play Store, or opt instead for third-party app marketplaces and services such as mapping applications.
Although European authorities also found Google in violation of antitrust regulations, the General Court of the European Union in Luxembourg later overturned the European Commission’s earlier decision, citing assessment errors. This ruling temporarily shielded Google from a substantial financial penalty. Nonetheless, the European Commission has announced its intention to consider further action, including a potential appeal, thus leaving the door open to renewed pressure on Google to divest its advertising operations.
Related Posts:
- Google’s Billion-Dollar Apple Search Deal Deemed Illegal
- Google’s Search Dominance Under Fire in Japan
- Qualcomm vs. Arm: Monopoly Accusations, Global Complaints Filed
- Google Under Fire Again: EU Prepares Antitrust Lawsuit Over Search Practices
- Google Antitrust: Mozilla Warns of Browser Choice Collapse
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