Google to Appeal Antitrust Ruling Over Online Search Practices

Google faces escalating legal challenges as it prepares to appeal a federal antitrust ruling targeting its dominance in online search and advertising. The US District Court’s April verdict found the tech giant violated competition laws in two ad-tech markets, prompting calls for structural remedies including divestiture of its Ad Manager suite.

Prosecutors allege Google’s multibillion-dollar default search agreements with device manufacturers like Apple constitute anti-competitive lock-in. The Department of Justice demands data sharing and termination of these arrangements, arguing they stifle innovation in emerging sectors like AI-powered search.

While Google’s counsel contends the company has addressed competition concerns in AI development, the case highlights growing regulatory scrutiny of Big Tech’s influence over digital infrastructure. The outcome could reshape the landscape for online advertising and search technologies.