It’s been days since Google lost its mega antitrust lawsuit where it was declared guilty by the US DOJ for monopolist behavior.
Now, another judge has warned the company against similar tactics, ordering more options for app downloads so users can benefit. However, it vows to take a step back and not micromanage the tech giant’s operations.
The news comes after the final verdict from the jury on the Epic Games lawsuit. Google was accused of preventing users from app downloading elsewhere so it could reap the benefits.
Now, Judge James Donato says reforms are on the way so there should no longer be any problems on this front. Google did argue about the rise in costs and the hardships it would encounter to enforce the change.
But there was zero attention given by the judge on this matter who feels there is no excuse. The decision would maximize flexibility on users’ end and give developers more benefits to supply apps elsewhere.
Before, Google forced all users to download through its Play Store. This is no longer the case as the tech giant was warned against behaving like a monopoly. And if that meant the tech giant would need to bear more costs in allowing this, then so be it.
The judge’s injunction was declared as being three pages long, making sure Google knew what path needed to be adopted.
On that note, the judge did state how a committee comprising three members would be set up to implement new changes and monitor the happenings.
For so long, Google hindered competition to fill up its pockets and behave like a monopoly. Now, the gates are opening and tables are turning so more competitors can work in the market.
Google is yet to add a comment on this matter and Epic didn’t respond to requests related to this either. The latter’s legal case accused the tech giant of monopolistic behavior. Their claims included hindering people from accessing apps through Android phones and paying for transactions.
This wreaked havoc in terms of competition and control. Google was in charge of app distribution and how payments would be made now. All Epic Games wanted is Google to be fair in terms of downloads. They also wished the tech giant would stop forcing all Android devices to install the Play Store as their only option.
Image: DIW-Aigen
