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US Court Rules Google Maintained Illegal Online Search Monopoly. A US court has ruled that Google illegally maintained an online search monopoly, marking one of the most significant rulings against the company's market dominance, Sky News reports. The US Justice Department and 38 states successfully sued Google, arguing the company paid billions to ensure it was the default search engine on browsers and devices. The lawsuit highlighted how Google's payments to smartphone makers created barriers for new or smaller search engines, further entrenching its dominant position. US regulators have been actively working to limit the power of tech giants like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Meta through various legal cases. The court case focused on Google's exclusive search agreements on Android, iPhones, and iPads, which contributed to its market dominance. The Justice Department argued that Google conducted nearly 90% of web searches, a figure that Google denied during the trial. The case also examined Google's control over search ads, with plaintiffs arguing that ad prices were inflated due to Google's monopolistic practices. Google maintained that its success was due to providing a better service for consumers, asserting that it was "winning because it's better.” Judge Amit Mehta did not outline specific remedies but suggested that Google might be ordered to sell part of its business or alter its operations. Judge Mehta declared, "Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly," setting the stage for potential appeals by Google.
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