Apple is not the only major tech player facing antitrust scrutiny, as Google is also under examination for its market dominance. The arrangement between Apple and Google regarding Safari’s default search engine has even raised concerns of antitrust law violations, and a recent court ruling states that Apple cannot participate in the ongoing case.
Apple barred from intervening in the Google Search antitrust trial
US District Court Judge Amit Mehta denied Apple’s urgent plea to halt a trial that could significantly alter the operation of Google Search. As reported previously, Apple sought to join the case to protect its interests, arguing that modifications to Google Search would result in “irreparable harm” to its business.
However, the judge’s decision (reported by The Verge) indicated that Apple failed to demonstrate substantial proof of how it might be harmed by the proposed changes. “Because Apple has not met the ‘stringent requirements’ for the ‘extraordinary relief’ of a stay during the appeal process, its request is denied,” stated the ruling.
Ultimately, Apple (once again) does not provide any specific details. It does not clarify why its status as a party is necessary to present the evidence it intends to share, nor does it specify how that evidence would differ from what has already been considered during the liability phase. Furthermore, it does not indicate any disparity between Google’s suggested remedy and its own preferred solution. Without such information, the court cannot ascertain that Apple will face the “certain and great” harm necessary to warrant a stay.
Apple’s actions were to be expected. Despite not being a direct participant in the case, Google compensated Apple with $20 billion in 2022 for being the default search engine for Safari. It is estimated that Apple receives similar payments annually to maintain this arrangement. Should Google ultimately be compelled to terminate this agreement, Apple’s service revenue could suffer significantly.
In 2020, the US Department of Justice initiated an antitrust lawsuit against Google, accusing the company of engaging in anti-competitive behaviors regarding its search engine and online advertising platform. Judge Mehta ruled last year that Google qualifies as a monopoly. While Google is appealing this decision, it may be obligated to divest some of its operations, including Android, Chrome, and Search.
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