Google is on the hot seat with the EU over alleged antitrust violations related to its Internet search practices on both the desktop and on mobile devices. After a two-year investigation that appears to find Google at fault, several of the complainants have voiced their displeasure at the pace of the European Commission’s action or lack thereof.
Reuters says that over a dozen companies have complained, including heavy hitters Microsoft and Nokia, even as European Union Competition Commissioner Joaquin Almunia said he plans to achieve a settlement with Google before the end of the year.
The length of the investigation may be due in part to the fact that it began with the desktop version of Google’s search engine but expanded to examine mobile search, as well.
"Google is using its Android mobile operating system as a 'Trojan Horse' to deceive partners, monopolize the mobile marketplace, and control consumer data," said FairSearch's lawyer Thomas Vinje in a statement to Reuters. Essentially, the allegation is that Google is driving traffic to itself through Android, by directing users to its search engine (not to mention YouTube, Maps, and other services) and also bumping up its own products in search results.
On the one hand, it seems a little silly to bang Google for shipping its services on devices running its operating system; on the other hand, complainants have a very good point. And it’s not like this is a new issue--just ask Microsoft about whether or not it’s cool to include your own Web browser with your operating system.
Reuters says that over a dozen companies have complained, including heavy hitters Microsoft and Nokia, even as European Union Competition Commissioner Joaquin Almunia said he plans to achieve a settlement with Google before the end of the year.
The length of the investigation may be due in part to the fact that it began with the desktop version of Google’s search engine but expanded to examine mobile search, as well.
"Google is using its Android mobile operating system as a 'Trojan Horse' to deceive partners, monopolize the mobile marketplace, and control consumer data," said FairSearch's lawyer Thomas Vinje in a statement to Reuters. Essentially, the allegation is that Google is driving traffic to itself through Android, by directing users to its search engine (not to mention YouTube, Maps, and other services) and also bumping up its own products in search results.
On the one hand, it seems a little silly to bang Google for shipping its services on devices running its operating system; on the other hand, complainants have a very good point. And it’s not like this is a new issue--just ask Microsoft about whether or not it’s cool to include your own Web browser with your operating system.
