Apple Seeks Delay in Google Monopoly Trial: Protecting a $20 Billion Contract

Article Summary

Overview: Apple has filed a motion to delay an upcoming trial that will determine actions Google must take following allegations of search and advertising monopolization. This move comes after Judge Amit Mehta denied Apple's request to participate in the trial, arguing that Apple should have known from 2020 that its interests could be affected.

Key Points:

• Trial Context: In August 2024, Google and Alphabet were legally recognized as a search and advertising monopoly. The upcoming trial will decide the steps Google must take next.
• Apple's Stance: Apple seeks to intervene because of its $20 billion annual contract with Google for default search status on iPhones. It argues that its interests are at risk if the Plaintiffs (DOJ) succeed in proposing a ban on such contracts.
• Legal Arguments:
  • Judge Mehta ruled that Apple's motion was too late and allowing it to participate could delay the trial, which is scheduled to conclude by August 2025.
  • Apple maintains it moved promptly once its interests were threatened and emphasizes the potential harm if excluded from deliberations affecting its contract with Google.
• Next Steps: Apple requests expedited consideration of its motion, aiming for a resolution by February 4, 2025. If denied, it will pursue a similar motion in the DC Circuit court.

Impact:

• For Apple: Exclusion from the trial could result in significant financial and operational harm due to the potential termination of its lucrative Google contract.
• For Users: The outcome could affect millions of iPhone users who rely on Google as the default search engine, impacting user experience and potentially leading to changes in how search services are provided.