Brussels imposes a fine of 4.3 billion euros on Google
The European Commission has imposed a fine of 4.3 billion euros on Google for illegally strengthening the search domain through the strategy for the mobile device segment. The US company has already said it will appeal.
Why was Google fined?
The European Commission fined the company at 4.3 billion euros, saying that the US company has unlawfully strengthened its search engine through the strategy for the mobile segment.
When did the investigation begin?
The European Commission began investigating the Android operating system in April 2015 following a complaint from Fairsearch, a trading group that originally included Microsoft, Nokia and Oracle, among its representatives. A third case is also being investigated by the European Commission, which involves the business of placing AdSense company ads.
What did Margrethe Vestager say?
The competition commissioner revealed at a press conference that "these practices have denied European consumers the benefits of effective competition in the important field of mobile phones. Google has used Android as a vehicle to consolidate the domain of its search engine".
On Twitter, Vestager pointed out that Google denied rivals the opportunity to innovate and compete. "This is illegal under competition rules in the European Union," he said, noting that "Google now has to stop it."
What was Google's reaction?
The company immediately responded to this fine and said, in a communication that will appeal. "Android has created more choice for everyone, not less. A vibrant ecosystem, rapid innovation and falling prices are classic signs of robust competition".
What can be the consequences?
Margrethe Vestager also ordered during the press conference that Google suspend anti-competitive practices in contractual agreements with smartphone manufacturers and telecommunications providers, within 90 days, or face additional penalties of up to 5% of Alphabet's average daily worldwide turnover.
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Good. They get away with so much here in the states, because gov is in bed with them. But they can't get play as they wish overseas.
Indeed, and the problem is that the consumers are the ones that suffer.
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