Google Appeals Record EU Antitrust Fine Over Android Practices
Google has launched an appeal against a record antitrust fine of 4.3 billion euros imposed by the European Union, claiming that the penalty punishes the company for its innovation. The case is being presented to the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union, following a 2023 decision by a lower tribunal that upheld the European Commission's ruling that Google used its Android operating system to stifle competition.
During the hearing, Google's lawyer, Alfonso Lamadrid, argued that the European Commission failed to meet its burden of proof and erroneously penalized Google for its business practices, which he contended actually promote competition. He defended agreements made with phone manufacturers that required pre-installation of Google services, stating that these agreements did not limit competition but rather enhanced it.
The EU's original findings indicated that such requirements hindered rival products, and the initial fine was reduced to 4.1 billion euros after an appeal to a lower court. The judges are expected to deliver a final ruling in the coming months, which will not be subject to appeal. This legal battle is one of several ongoing challenges for Google in the EU, particularly concerning its advertising technology.
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