In August, Judge Mehta found that Google unlawfully maintained its dominance in general search services and search advertising by paying billions to remain the default search engine on devices from Apple, Samsung, and other manufacturers. As a remedy, the DOJ has proposed breaking up Google’s business, including a potential forced sale of its Chrome browser. Additionally, the government seeks to prohibit Google from offering financial incentives to other companies in exchange for search engine default status.
However, on Wednesday, Judge Mehta denied Apple’s intervention bid, citing its timing. He noted that the case has been ongoing since 2020, and the DOJ first proposed potential remedies last October. Allowing Apple to intervene now, he warned, could open the door for other companies to make similar requests.
Apple Argues for Stay, Citing Business Harm
Apple maintains that its motion was timely, asserting that it only became apparent recently that its interests were not being sufficiently represented in the case. The company contends that it faces irreparable harm if it is not allowed to participate, as the case directly impacts its “freedom to contract” and “undisputed property rights.”
