Google has denied allegations that it achieved its status as the world’s search engine through methods arguing that switching to another search provider only requires a simple process of “just four taps.” The tech giant put forth this argument through its representative during a court hearing in Washington DC, where it is currently facing a high-stakes trial that will determine whether it holds a monopoly.
This case examines the power held by US regulators over technology companies and has been described by prosecutors as vital for “the future of the internet.” The trial is expected to last for ten weeks. Will feature testimonies from Sundar Pichai, Google’s CEO, and executives from Apple.
Judge Amit Mehta, appointed to the DC district court by former President Barack Obama, will ultimately decide on this case, which is considered significant for the tech industry in twenty-five years. The government’s lawsuit focuses on the billions of dollars that Google has allegedly paid to companies such as Apple, Samsung, Mozilla, and others to secure its position as the default search engine on their devices.
The US government claims that Google pays than $10 billion every year for this status, which allows it to have constant access to user data solidifying its position of power in the market. Kenneth Dintzer, a lawyer from the Department of Justice, stressed the significance of defaults and highlighted how Google’s financial contributions prove their importance.