Last year, US courts ruled that Google has a monopolistic position in the search engine segment. Although it is not part of the case as a defendant, the potential remedies could also significantly affect Apple. Thus, Apple wants to become an active party in court to defend the deals related to Google’s search engine.
Apple gets billions for setting Google’s search engine as default in Safari
The lawsuit against Google, initiated in 2020 by the US DOJ, included several points. One of the main ones was the multi-million dollar agreements with Apple for setting Google as the default search engine for Safari, Apple’s web browser. The ruling was unfavorable for Google, and one of the proposed remedies includes the dissolution of these deals.
However, these deals have represented a strong source of income for the Cupertino giant. According to reports, Google paid Apple around $20 billion for it in 2022. Their disappearance could be a significant blow to Apple’s finances. So, the company believes it should be an active part of the trial.
Apple wants to be an active party in the trial to defend search engine deals
This is not the first time Apple has tried something similar. The iPhone maker had previously asked to be more involved in determining potential remedies. At that time, the company said that Google “can no longer adequately represent Apple’s interests.” However, the court dismissed the request due to lack of time. Apple is now asking for an emergency stay to give it enough time to be an active part of the case and defend its position.
Apple argues that radical decisions such as the removal of the deals by Google’s search engine could cause it “clear and substantial irreparable harm.” On the other hand, the US DOJ does not agree that Apple should be a party to the case.
Interestingly, the elimination of the deals between Google and Apple is not among the most extreme suggested remedies. The list of proposals also includes selling Google Chrome and separating Android from services like Google Search and Play Store.
A final decision on the matter is expected in the coming months. If the judges force Google to ditch its search engine-related deals with Apple, the latter will have to find another way to offer it on its devices without the Mountain View giant paying for it.
