Technology

Google fined a record $5 billion for Android anti-trust violations

EU regulators have fined Google a record-breaking $5 billion for violating anti-trust laws.

According to the EU Commission, Google has abused its Android market penetration across three major areas. These include integrating its search engine and Chrome apps into the OS. Google also allegedly blocked phone manufacturers from creating devices that run split versions of Android. It also made payments to them and also mobile network operators to integrate Google search app on handsets.

The EU Commission now wants to end this illegal conduct. Google has been asked to take necessary measures within 90 days of the decision and stop forcing manufacturers to preinstall Chrome and Google search feature. This was used to offer the Google Play Store on various devices. Additionally, it will also have to stop asking phone manufacturers from using split versions of Android, as Google failed to provide any evidence that such versions fall prey to technical failures to support apps.

When it comes to Google illegally paying phone manufacturers and network operators to bundle Google products, EU looked into this issue in 2014. Since then such illegal payments have been ceased.

Google is now preparing to appeal the EU Commission’s decision and has warned that this may affect the free business model of Android in the future. Google believes that Android has opened doors for more choice and built a vibrant ecosystem with rapid innovation which has been possible with lower prices.

Sponsored
Asra Rizwan

I profile people and startups contributing to the Pakistani technology entrepreneurial ecosystem. Share a story with me, asra@techjuice.pk

Leave a Comment
Share
Published by
Asra Rizwan

Recent Posts

Microsoft Launches AI-Powered “Support Virtual Agent” for Xbox Users

Microsoft has launched its AI-powered “Support Virtual Agent” chatbot for Xbox Insiders in the U.S.,…

3 hours ago

Musk Says Tesla Won’t Enter Smartphone Market Unless Necessary

Android Authority recently polled its users to find out if they would purchase a Tesla…

3 hours ago

Sukkur IBA Sets Seven Conditions for Conducting MDCAT

The Secretary of the Sukkur IBA Testing Agency has formally requested urgent action from the…

3 hours ago

PSEB Opens Bidding for Nationwide e-Rozgar Centers

The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has launched a nationwide program to encourage IT startups…

4 hours ago

Google Play Services Bug Disrupts Access to Apps for Pixel Users: Here’s How to Fix It

A significant issue with Google Play Services has left many Pixel users unable to access…

4 hours ago

WhatsApp Beta Partners with Google for Innovative Image Search Feature

When it comes to Android messaging apps, WhatsApp stands out as one of the best.…

5 hours ago