Introduction to the Antitrust Trial
The antitrust trial targeting Google’s search business is heading into the home stretch, and the outcome could forever alter Google—and the web itself. The company is scrambling to protect its search empire, but perhaps market forces could pull the rug out from under Google before the government can.
Apple SVP’s Testimony
Apple SVP of Services Eddie Cue suggested in his testimony on Wednesday that Google’s search traffic might be falling. This statement was made during the trial, where Cue expressed concern about losing the Google search deal, which is a major source of revenue for Apple. The contract between Google and Apple gives Google default search placement in exchange for a significant amount of money.
Google’s Response
In an unusual move, Google issued a statement late in the day after Cue’s testimony to dispute the implication that it may already be losing its monopoly. The DOJ contends that the contract between Google and Apple, as well as a similar one for Firefox, is anticompetitive, and its proposed remedies call for banning Google from such deals. Google’s statement on this comes off as a bit defensive, as the company tries to protect its search empire.
The Impact of Search Volume
Surprisingly, Cue noted in his testimony that search volume in Safari fell for the first time ever in April. Since Google is the default search provider, that implies fewer Google searches. Apple devices are popular, and a drop in Google searches there could be a bad sign for the company’s future competitiveness.
Conclusion
The outcome of the antitrust trial is still uncertain, but one thing is clear: the future of Google’s search business is at stake. Whether it’s the government or market forces that ultimately decide the fate of Google’s search empire, the impact will be felt across the web. As the trial comes to a close, all eyes are on Google and its response to the challenges it faces.
FAQs
- Q: What is the antitrust trial about?
A: The antitrust trial is about Google’s search business and the contracts it has with Apple and Firefox to be the default search provider. - Q: What did Apple SVP Eddie Cue say in his testimony?
A: Cue suggested that Google’s search traffic might be falling, citing a drop in search volume in Safari. - Q: How did Google respond to Cue’s testimony?
A: Google issued a statement disputing the implication that it may be losing its monopoly and defending its search business. - Q: What is at stake in the antitrust trial?
A: The future of Google’s search business and its dominance in the search market are at stake in the trial.
