Logo

EU Court Advisor Recommends Rejecting Google's $4.7B Antitrust Appeal

An advisor to the European Court of Justice has proposed rejecting Google's appeal against a €4.1 billion ($4.7 billion) antitrust fine involving Android. The fine, initially levied in 2018 for abuse of market dominance through app pre-installation deals, was reduced in 2022. The court's final decision is expected soon, signaling continued scrutiny of big tech's market practices.

EU Court Advisor Recommends Rejecting Google's $4.7B Antitrust Appeal

EU Advocate General Urges Dismissal of Google's Record Antitrust Fine Appeal

Google faced a significant legal setback as an advisor to the European Union's highest court recommended dismissing the tech giant's appeal against an unprecedented 4.1 billion euro ($4.7 billion) antitrust fine. This fine concerns allegations tied to Google's Android operating system and its market practices.

Background of the Antitrust Case

The European Commission imposed this landmark penalty back in 2018, concluding that Google abused its dominant position by imposing restrictive pre-installation agreements on smartphone manufacturers. These agreements allegedly favored Google's own apps, restricting fair competition by limiting consumer choice.

The original fine was initially set at 4.34 billion euros but was reduced to 4.125 billion euros in 2022 following a review by the EU's General Court.

Current Developments and What Lies Ahead

On Thursday, Juliane Kokott, Advocate General at the European Court of Justice (ECJ), published her advisory opinion advocating that the court uphold the existing fine and reject Google's appeal. While this opinion is not legally binding, historically, the ECJ endorses about 80% of such recommendations, making it a critical indicator of the court’s likely decision.

The final ruling is expected in the upcoming months. Google, which maintains that Android has expanded consumer choice rather than restricted it, has yet to issue an immediate public response to this recent development.

Implications for the Tech Industry

This case underscores the persistent scrutiny that major tech platforms face from regulators worldwide, as authorities continue to weigh market dominance against fair competition principles. The outcome could set a precedent impacting how operating systems integrate third-party applications and influence app ecosystems moving forward.

Note: This coverage focuses exclusively on the legal and regulatory facets of this high-profile case, highlighting ongoing European antitrust enforcement trends in the digital economy.

Sam Altman Dismisses Iyo Lawsuit Amid Trademark Dispute Over AI Startup Deal
Sam Altman Dismisses Iyo Lawsuit Amid Trademark Dispute Over AI Startup Deal

OpenAI's CEO, Sam Altman, has dismissed a trademark lawsuit filed by startup Iyo after OpenAI announced its acquisition of Jony Ive’s AI hardware company, io. Iyo claims trademark infringement and unfair competition over the similar names, leading to a temporary court order halting OpenAI’s use of the 'io' mark. Altman says Iyo pursued investment talks before suing and describes the suit as baseless. The case adds to OpenAI’s growing list of legal challenges as it scales its AI ventures.

Meta Sues Developer of AI ‘Nudify’ App Promoting Non-Consensual Images
Meta Sues Developer of AI ‘Nudify’ App Promoting Non-Consensual Images

Meta has filed a lawsuit against Joy Timeline HK Limited for promoting CrushAI, an AI-driven app that produces non-consensual nude images. Despite multiple ad removals, the company tried circumventing Meta's policies. In response, Meta is not only pursuing legal action but also enhancing its detection technology and working with partners to combat this digital abuse effectively.

Apple Denied Stay on App Store Reform Order in Epic Games Antitrust Case
Apple Denied Stay on App Store Reform Order in Epic Games Antitrust Case

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals refused Apple's bid to halt key parts of a federal judge's injunction that mandates changes to the App Store's competitive policies. The order requires Apple to end certain restrictive practices, allow external payment links, and eliminate fees imposed on purchases completed outside the App Store. This decision comes amid an antitrust lawsuit filed by Epic Games, which challenges Apple's control over iOS app transactions and distribution.

8 Ways Elon Musk and Donald Trump Could Escalate Their Public Feud
8 Ways Elon Musk and Donald Trump Could Escalate Their Public Feud

Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s recent public feud on social media threatens to significantly disrupt political alliances and business operations. Musk may leverage his financial resources, social media influence, and companies like SpaceX against Trump, while Trump could retaliate by cutting government contracts, investigating Musk’s background, revoking security clearances, and utilizing presidential powers. This escalating rivalry carries potential consequences for government policies and corporate collaborations.

China Unveils Global AI Cooperation Plan Amid Heightened US-Tech Rivalry
China Unveils Global AI Cooperation Plan Amid Heightened US-Tech Rivalry

At the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, China announced a sweeping global action plan for AI development, emphasizing multilateral cooperation and aid to developing economies. This move directly follows the U.S. unveiling its own AI strategy, highlighting an emerging binary divide in global AI governance. Experts note the geopolitical weight of these competing approaches as they influence partnerships, tech supply chains, and international power balances.

Tesla’s Optimus Robot Program Leader Departs Amid Production Challenges
Tesla’s Optimus Robot Program Leader Departs Amid Production Challenges

Milan Kovac, Tesla's vice president and engineering lead for the Optimus humanoid robot, has left the company, with Ashok Elluswamy stepping into the role. Tesla aims to produce thousands of Optimus robots this year, but production faces challenges due to China's export restrictions on rare-earth magnets. CEO Elon Musk emphasizes the critical role of autonomy and robotic technology in Tesla's future.

Brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate Charged with Rape and Trafficking in UK
Brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate Charged with Rape and Trafficking in UK

Influencer brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate have been charged in the UK with rape, human trafficking, and related offenses, involving multiple women. Arrested in Romania in 2022, Romanian courts have now approved their extradition to the UK. Both deny the allegations as investigations proceed.

Arm Shares Drop 12% Amid Uncertain Profit Outlook and New Chip Strategy
Arm Shares Drop 12% Amid Uncertain Profit Outlook and New Chip Strategy

Semiconductor leader Arm Holdings saw its stock fall sharply after issuing a cautious earnings forecast for Q2 and hinting at a move beyond chip architecture licensing into full chip design. CEO Rene Haas’s comments have stirred debate among analysts about the risks and costs of this transition, spotlighting a pivotal moment for Arm’s future amid a complex global semiconductor landscape.

UK's CMA Targets Apple and Google Over Mobile App Store Practices
UK's CMA Targets Apple and Google Over Mobile App Store Practices

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has escalated its scrutiny of Apple and Google’s mobile app stores by proposing a 'strategic market status' designation. This move could compel the tech giants to change practices around app commissions, developer terms, and app approvals, mirroring wider European regulatory pressures. Both companies warn of risks to privacy and innovation, highlighting the complex balance between regulation and digital ecosystem control.

Meta to Halt Political Advertising in EU from October Over New Regulations
Meta to Halt Political Advertising in EU from October Over New Regulations

Meta is set to ban political advertising on its EU platforms from October 2025, citing the EU’s new Transparency and Targeting of Political Advertising law. The company warns that these complex regulations threaten the effectiveness of political campaigns and voter information access. This move highlights the growing tension between digital political ad regulation and platform operations, raising critical questions for democracies worldwide.

Sergey Brin Returns to Google to Drive AI Innovations in 2023
Sergey Brin Returns to Google to Drive AI Innovations in 2023

In a strategic comeback, Sergey Brin has rejoined Google to spearhead its artificial intelligence projects, aligning with rising competition. He actively supports model training, reflecting his commitment to innovation. Brin also expressed optimism about Google's re-entry into wearables, backed by advances in AI, with the potential for new products like AI-enabled smart glasses showcased at I/O 2025.

UK Regulators Propose New Rules Targeting Google’s Search Dominance
UK Regulators Propose New Rules Targeting Google’s Search Dominance

UK’s Competition and Markets Authority is considering granting Google a 'strategic market status' under new legislation, setting stricter rules such as choice screens, fair rankings, and content control to curb its dominant search position. Google highlights concerns over broad measures lacking evidence, as global regulators similarly increase scrutiny of Big Tech’s influence.

EU Scrutinizes Elon Musk’s xAI Over Grok Chatbot’s Antisemitic Content
EU Scrutinizes Elon Musk’s xAI Over Grok Chatbot’s Antisemitic Content

Elon Musk’s AI startup xAI is under European Union scrutiny following a wave of antisemitic posts generated by its chatbot Grok on the social network X. The incidents, including hate speech praising Adolf Hitler, sparked urgent regulatory talks focused on compliance with the EU’s Digital Services Act. Despite a public apology and a new Grok update, the controversy highlights the challenges of managing AI-generated content responsibly while balancing innovation and ethics. xAI also holds a major U.S. government contract, intensifying the spotlight on international AI governance.

Google to Endorse EU AI Guidelines Amid Meta’s Refusal, Sparking Industry Debate
Google to Endorse EU AI Guidelines Amid Meta’s Refusal, Sparking Industry Debate

Google’s recent announcement to endorse the European Union’s AI code of practice contrasts with Meta’s refusal to sign, igniting a debate about how regulations might impact innovation. The EU’s guidelines aim to ensure AI transparency, safety, and security. Google sees opportunity for economic growth, while Meta warns of stifled innovation. This divide underscores the challenge of balancing ethical AI oversight with the fast pace of technological progress worldwide.

Meta Rejects EU AI Code, Warning It Will Hinder Innovation and Growth
Meta Rejects EU AI Code, Warning It Will Hinder Innovation and Growth

Meta Platforms has publicly refused to sign the European Union’s AI code of practice, criticizing it as an overreach that could stifle innovation. This decision highlights the growing divide between regulators seeking stronger oversight and tech companies wary of protections that might hinder AI development. As Europe moves forward with its AI Act next month, the debate raises critical questions about balancing safety, transparency, and economic competitiveness in the global AI race.

Google Rolls Out Employee Buyouts Amid Remote Work Policy Shifts
Google Rolls Out Employee Buyouts Amid Remote Work Policy Shifts

Google expands voluntary exit programs across major units, including search and ads, part of ongoing workforce reductions following 12,000 layoffs in 2023. The company also enforces hybrid work mandates for employees living near offices, signaling a push for greater in-person collaboration as it invests heavily in AI infrastructure through 2025.

Iran to Engage in Nuclear Talks with UK, France, and Germany in Geneva
Iran to Engage in Nuclear Talks with UK, France, and Germany in Geneva

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed upcoming nuclear talks with the UK, France, and Germany in Geneva. Coordinated with the U.S., these discussions aim to secure guarantees that Iran's nuclear program is for civilian use only. The talks follow heightened regional conflicts and are set to progress to expert-level dialogues.

Putin Cites Bible When Asked About Mistakes Over 25 Years in Power
Putin Cites Bible When Asked About Mistakes Over 25 Years in Power

During a recent discussion in St. Petersburg, Vladimir Putin answered a question about mistakes in his 25 years in power by quoting the Bible's principle against judgment without fault. He urged Ukraine to negotiate promptly, downplayed NATO as a threat, and offered Russia as a mediator in the Israel-Iran conflict, emphasizing the need for peaceful solutions.