This article revolves around the ongoing antitrust case targeting Google, which seeks to challenge and potentially
sever the lucrative agreement between Google and Apple. As part of this deal, Google pays Apple billions annually to
maintain its search engine as the default option in Apple's apps, including Safari. In 2022 alone, it was disclosed
that Google paid Apple a staggering $20 billion to secure this position.This partnership is extremely
lucrative for Apple, as it simply needs to designate the world's leading search engine as the default in its
browser. For Google, making such hefty payments is a strategic investment to keep its search engine at the forefront
of Apple's platforms, despite facing allegations of antitrust violations by prosecutors related to this deal and
other practices.
I seriously cannot imagine a Chrome browser that is not owned by Google. | Image credit — Getty
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Apple contends that Google will be preoccupied with defending broader facets of its business during the trial,
allowing the tech giant to bring forth its own witnesses to argue that the partnership is a routine business
decision unrelated to anticompetitive practices.
This antitrust case notably
seeks to compel Google not only to divest its Chrome browser but also to fundamentally change its search engine
operations and business strategies. Although there were initial inclinations to force Google to sell Android,
officials concluded this action would be overly aggressive.
Apple's choice to back Google isn't driven by friendship; rather, it's a strategic move to safeguard its
interests, as dismantling this deal could jeopardize its lucrative arrangement. Regardless, Google would likely
remain the default search engine on its platforms.This high-stakes case has generated considerable
intrigue, and many are eager to see its outcome.
