Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Alphabet, expressed his concerns in court regarding a proposal from the Justice Department asserting that Google maintains an illegal monopoly over online search. He characterized the recommendation for Google to share search data with competitors as a potential “de facto” divestiture of the company’s search engine.
Pichai testified that if the company were compelled to disclose its search data and the algorithms used for ranking results, competitors might be able to dismantle and replicate “every aspect of our technology.”
During his testimony in federal court in Washington, Pichai described the implications of the proposed antitrust remedies as excessive, warning that they could significantly hinder Google’s competitive standing in the market. He noted that the suggested measures might render it “unviable to continue to invest in” research and development and emphasized that they would lead to numerous unintended consequences.
‘Definitely a Slowdown’
Pichai pointed out that the Justice Department’s proposal compares unfavorably to the recently enacted Digital Markets Act in Europe, which mandates that Google share certain data with rival search engines but is more narrowly defined. He highlighted that, although the European law has led to delays in rolling out innovations within the EU, the proposed U.S. measures would pose an even greater restriction.
Testifying in a trial that spans three weeks, Pichai is providing evidence pertinent to a case that seeks to reassess Google’s competitive practices following U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta’s determination last year that the company had illegally maintained its market dominance in online search. The Justice Department concluded its presentation of evidence on Tuesday, and Google is now in the process of delivering its own.
The government’s proposal includes divesting Google from its Chrome browser, licensing certain search data to competitors, and prohibiting payment for exclusive placements on various platforms. They have also urged Judge Mehta to extend the scope of remedies to Google’s AI products, alleging that their development was supported by the company’s monopolistic practices in search.
In defense, Google contends that the proposed changes would ultimately diminish consumer choice and harm the economy while diminishing the U.S.’s position in technology innovation.
Moreover, Pichai refuted recommendations that would restrict the company from compensating smartphone manufacturers or browser developers for default placement. He argued that these payments are vital for maintaining the Android ecosystem.
In court, Judge Mehta inquired about the competitive landscape, asking Pichai how other companies could compete with Google’s financial capacity to secure default placements. Pichai countered that rivals like Microsoft and OpenAI have successfully entered partnerships with publishers, indicating that competition remains feasible even for Google.
Third Time Testifying
This appearance marks Pichai’s third time testifying in recent years as Google faces multiple antitrust cases. In late 2023, he engaged in separate proceedings across states, addressing accusations that Google maintained monopoly power not only over search but also in the mobile-app market and in online advertising technology.
The cumulative legal challenges underscore the extraordinary scrutiny faced by Google concerning its influence over critical online services.
Pichai, who has been with Google since 2004, has risen through the ranks to occupy the CEO position since 2015, playing pivotal roles in key projects such as Android and Chrome development.
Lawyer Pushes Pichai
During intense cross-examination, DOJ lawyer Veronica Onyema challenged Pichai on uncertainties regarding potential buyers for the Chrome browser, questioning his familiarity with internal security measures. Pichai asserted his qualifications, stating his deep involvement in Chrome’s development and security.
He acknowledged that while no organization is infallible in addressing privacy concerns, cybersecurity management cannot be handled solely by Google.
Throughout the proceedings, Pichai maintained a professional demeanor, opting to stand while delivering testimony. He followed Google employee Heather Adkins, a security expert, who testified that Google’s security practices render them trustworthy stewards of the Chrome browser.
Judge Mehta aims to reach a decision on remedies for Google’s anticompetitive practices by August. Nonetheless, any implementations are expected to undergo years of legal proceedings, including potential appeals that could advance to the U.S. Supreme Court.
(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
