In addition to the Android case, Google is contesting a €1.49 billion fine from 2019 related to its contracts for placing ads on third-party websites’ search results pages. Last year, the European Commission issued a fourth statement of objections to Google, this time concerning its control over display ad technology, though a fine has not yet been levied in that case.
Global Antitrust Scrutiny
The ad tech allegations in Europe echo similar claims brought by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and several states. These U.S. authorities accuse Google of monopolizing the ad tech space, a case that began trial this week in Virginia federal court. The DOJ is also pursuing a separate case against Google, accusing the company of monopolizing general search and search advertising markets through agreements with major companies like Apple and Samsung, which make Google the default search engine on many devices.
€2.4B Google Shopping Fine : A Growing Web of Litigation
Beyond government action, Google faces private lawsuits in the U.S., U.K., and other countries regarding its control over display ad technology. In the U.S., another group of state enforcers is pursuing separate litigation. As Google navigates these complex legal battles, the €2.4 billion Google Shopping fine marks just one chapter in the tech giant’s ongoing struggle with global antitrust authorities.
