The European Union Court of Justice could reject Google’s appeal against a fine of $ 4.7 billion. This judicial setback is not just a case of antitrust: it embodies the growing tensions between American technological giants and European digital sovereignty.
In short
- Google is likely to permanently lose its appeal against the record fine of 4.1 billion euros inflicted by the EU for abuse of dominant position via Android.
- The European Advocate General recommends that judges confirm this historic sanction.
- The final decision will fall in the coming months and could redefine the balance of power between American technological giants and European regulators.
A legal battle that turns to the disadvantage of Google
Thursday, Juliane Kokott brought a hard blow to the hopes of Google. This lawyer general of the highest European jurisdiction recommends that judges maintain the fine of 4.125 billion euros.
A record sum which was initially 4.34 billion before being slightly reduced in 2022.
It all started in 2018. The European Commission then accused Google of having abused its dominant position with Android. Reproach? Oblige smartphones manufacturers to preset google applications. This practice prevented competition from speaking freely on the European mobile market.
Admittedly, the advice of the lawyer general does not oblige the judges. But he counts a lot. In 80% of cases, the Court of Justice follows these recommendations. Google therefore sees its chances of victory melt like snow in the sun.
The Mountain View company was quick to react. She says she is “disappointed” and fears that this decision slows down technological investments. Google highlights its Android ecosystem that brings “thousands of companies” to life in Europe and elsewhere.
A precedent heavy with consequences for the technological industry
This legal battle reveals a deeper conflict. Europe and American technological giants now compete openly. Brussels multiplies the new rules: after mica for cryptocurrencies, here is now digital markets Act and Digital Services Act.
The moment chosen for this recommendation is no coincidence. The EU wants to make an example. The message is clear: even the largest technological companies will have to respect European rules. No more time when questionable practices passed between the meshes of the net.
On the finance side, Google can take the blow. With more than $ 80 billion in revenue per quarter, the fine remains bearable. But the real consequences are elsewhere. Google may have to review its way of working with smartphones manufacturers in Europe.
This development could benefit other players. Telephone manufacturers and application creators could finally have more freedom. Fewer Google constraints means more space for innovation and competition.
The noose is therefore tightening around the American giant. This affair marks a historic turning point between the European authorities and Big Tech. The final decision, expected soon, could change the rules of the digital game in Europe for a long time.
In short, Google is now under pressure, and its chances of escaping this historic fine fall asleep. Beyond the amount, the authority of European regulators asserts itself. After Telegram and its troubles with Digital Services Act, Google in turn discovers that Europe no longer jokes with its rules.
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