competition laws Archives

AppWizard

December 23, 2024

Japan to order Google to make these changes on its search app on Android smartphones

Japan's Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) is set to find Google in violation of the nation's competition laws, marking its first order against a major US technology firm. The JFTC plans to issue a cease-and-desist order requiring Google to stop monopolistic practices in the internet search sector, specifically related to agreements with Android smartphone manufacturers that mandate the installation of its search and Chrome browser applications to access app stores. This ruling is part of a broader trend, as Google is also facing scrutiny in other markets, including a recent argument from the US Department of Justice for drastic measures against the company. The JFTC has informed Google of its intended actions and will finalize its decision after considering the company's response. Google has not publicly commented on the situation.

AppWizard

September 6, 2024

Android Auto app design limits raise regulatory flags

Google has faced regulatory scrutiny in the European Union regarding its Android Auto application templates, which have been criticized for favoring its own navigation services over third-party apps. The Italian app JuicePass, designed for electric vehicle charging, encountered difficulties launching on Android Auto due to these restrictive templates, leading to legal challenges and a 2021 penalty against Google. The EU Court Advocate General has suggested that Google's practices may breach competition rules. Although Google has started to relax some restrictions on Android Auto apps, JuicePass remains unavailable, with Google initially citing security concerns for its absence.

AppWizard

September 6, 2024

Google Blocks Android Auto App and the Company Is in Big Trouble Now

Google is enhancing the Android Auto app landscape while maintaining a curated selection of applications. In 2021, the JuicePass app by Enel was denied launch on Android Auto for not adhering to mandatory templates. Enel escalated the issue to Italian authorities, resulting in a 102 million Euro fine imposed on Google for market power abuse. Google appealed, and the case is now in the European Court of Justice, which is examining potential competition law violations. Google claims JuicePass did not meet security protocols and is working with Enel to address these issues. Google plans to expand the Android Auto ecosystem by introducing new app categories, including video applications, web browsers, and games, with a beta program for developers. YouTube will soon be accessible in vehicles, but users can only engage with it while parked, as the system will lock the screen during driving.

AppWizard

September 6, 2024

Google Blocks Android Auto Access, May Violate EU Rules, According To Court Adviser – Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG), Fidelity MSCI Communication Services Index ETF (ARCA:FCOM)

An adviser at the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has suggested that Google’s refusal to allow Enel SpA’s e-mobility app, JuicePass, access to its Android Auto platform may violate competition laws. This follows a 2021 fine of 102 million euros imposed on Alphabet Inc. by Italy’s antitrust regulator for similar actions. JuicePass allows users to manage electric vehicle chargers remotely, but Google blocked its integration, citing security concerns and the absence of a specific template. Google has appealed to the Italian Council of State and is working to address the issue. As the CJEU prepares to rule, Alphabet's stock has seen mixed reactions, with a modest increase of 0.50% recently.

AppWizard

September 5, 2024

Android Auto’s limits on some apps could be breaching EU rules

Google has faced criticism and legal challenges from the European Union over its restrictions on third-party applications for Android Auto, particularly after denying the launch of the JuicePass app, which led to a 102 million euro fine from Italian antitrust authorities. The Court of Justice of the European Union's Advocate General suggested that Google's actions may violate competition laws, while Google defended its decision citing security concerns. The company has indicated a willingness to address the issue and is awaiting further rulings from the CJEU regarding its practices.