Categories: News

Google faces a record-breaking fine of $3.4 billion for abusing search monopoly

In a week, Google could be handed a notice for a record-breaking fine of (€3 billion) $3.4 billion. The fine comes in the wake of web search monopoly abuse as the European Union seeks to punish Google for taking advantage of their market position.

The EU formally notified Google of the anti-trust charges in April after an investigation which started last year. That was regarding their Android operating system which favors Google’s own services over those of its competitors. This includes a practice that demands Google Search comes “pre-installed and set as the default, or exclusive, search service on most Android devices sold in Europe.”

Also Read: Google removes the app which was reportedly used by Pakistan to snoop Indian Army

The European Union takes their anti-trust punishments very seriously. Back in 2009, microchip giant Intel was charged with €1.1 billion. However, the fine on Google is that of a record-breaking amount. The issue at hand is that the EU claims Google has promoted its own shopping results over its competitors. Google has so far denied these allegations and even have a right to challenge the claims. It should be noted here that Intel also took their matter to court and the final decision was made in 2014.

Also Read: Google’s self-driving computers can now qualify as Drivers

It is expected that Google will fight for the amount being charged and it is possible for the total to change. The European Union has the right to charge Google for one-tenth of their annual sales which amounts to €3.3 billion. However, the fine is not all there is to it. Google faces a seven-year investigation into their search engine. Furthermore, they will also have to change their search practice in order to comply with the rules set by the European Union.

Google is no doubt a force to be reckoned with. They recently launched their in-house startup incubator for employees and expanded their free Wifi services in Indian Railways. The European Union is clearly concerned about Google’s expansiveness and it appears they are ready to put up a fight.

Sponsored
Maryam Dodhy

I love bringing to light stories of extraordinary people working in Pakistan's tech and startup industry. You can reach out to me through maryamdodhy@techjuice.pk.

Share
Published by
Maryam Dodhy
Tags: Google

Recent Posts

Teachers Can Now Access OpenAI’s Free AI Course

OpenAI, in collaboration with nonprofit organization Common Sense Media, announced on Wednesday the launch of…

14 mins ago

WhatsApp-Inspired Updates Under Testing in Google Messages

Google is exploring a revamped image-sharing interface in its Messages app, taking cues from WhatsApp…

35 mins ago

Create AI Video Backgrounds with YouTube Shorts’ Dream Screen

When it comes to online video streaming, YouTube is among the most well-known options. Every…

41 mins ago

Telecom Operators to Automatically Restore SIMs for Tax Filers

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has introduced a comprehensive mechanism for blocking and unblocking…

2 hours ago

Trump’s Influence Fuels Bitcoin to Cross $100,000

Bitcoin broke the $100,000 mark for the first time on Thursday, driven by Trump's crypto-friendly…

3 hours ago

PSX Hits New Heights, Surges by 1,800 Points to Cross 97,000

On Thursday, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) 100 Index surged by 1,781.94 points, or 1.86%,…

3 hours ago