Google’s legal troubles seem to be getting worse, as the government of Japan has joined the U.S. in accusing the tech giant of antitrust law violations.
According to a local news outlet on 23 December, the Japan Fair Trade Commission suspects that Google has unfairly pressured smartphone manufacturers to pre-install its apps including search app Chrome, which violates its antitrust laws.
The Japanese competition watchdog therefore plans to order the top web search provider to halt violations of the country’s antitrust law.
Pending actions
According to a source familiar with Google’s situation, the Japan Fair Trade Commission has determined that Google has used its dominance in the online search market to hinder fair competition.
The agency has therefore notified the company of possible disciplinary measures but awaits its response.
In a similar fashion, the tech giant is facing antitrust law violation allegations in the U.S., leading to the Department of Justice (DOJ) recommending that it sell Chrome.
It is alleged that Google makes it compulsory for mobile phone users to install some apps such as Chrome to access its services, particularly Google Play services, which is considered to be a violation of the antitrust law in both Japan and the U.S.
After appealing the DOJ ruling, a hearing has been scheduled for April 2025 to decide the case between the two.
Google files fresh proposal
Ahead of the trial next year, Google has filed a fresh remedies proposal on the case.
The company is proposing a few remedies to be considered in the upcoming trial, including that the DOJ allow browser companies like Apple and Mozilla decide whatever search engine they think is best for their users.
It also says that browsers are free to change their default search provides at least every 12 months and so cannot be said to be compelled to use Google search.
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