The Biden Department of Justice’s landmark anti-trust case against Google’s search engine monopoly is set to begin today, with the lawsuit – originally filed in October of 2020 – alleging that Google formed an anticompetitive monopoly through revenue-sharing agreements with companies like Apple, Samsung, and Mozilla, which make Google the default search engine on web browsers and mobile phones. Google contests the claims, arguing its agreements are not exclusive and that device default settings can be easily changed. The trial is expected to last for eight to ten weeks, and an initial ruling is not expected until next year.
If Google loses, it could lead to major changes in its business arrangements and potential divestments. The outcome also has implications for other investigations and lawsuits faced by tech giants like Amazon, Apple, and Ticketmaster, as it could shape how U.S. courts and enforcers handle anti-competitive behavior by dominant companies that establish monopoly power.
The trial is being presided over by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, who was appointed by former President Barack Obama. It is expected to take years before a final decision is reached. If Google loses, a second trial will be needed to determine an appropriate remedy, followed by potential appeals that could reach the U.S. Supreme Court. The trial is considered a key legal precedent for determining how companies can leverage their dominance in one market to gain an advantage in another.
