Google CEO Takes Aim at Microsoft in High-Stakes Antitrust Trial
WASHINGTON: Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, voiced criticism of Microsoft’s browser on Monday during a once-in-a-generation antitrust battle with the US government. Pichai argued that Google’s browser and internet search are user-friendly and secure.
Pichai testified in a trial that will determine whether Google engaged in illegal practices to maintain its dominance in online search and aspects of search advertising. If the government prevails, the company may be required to discontinue certain business practices that have contributed to its ongoing success.
During his testimony, Pichai took a couple of jabs at Internet Explorer. He mentioned that before Google introduced its Chrome browser, which competes with Microsoft’s product, “the browser market at the time had kind of stagnated.” He added that “they (Microsoft) were not that motivated to improve the browser,” while characterizing Chrome as a “pretty dramatic improvement” when it was launched in 2008.
Pichai also emphasized that Google made it easy for users to switch from the Chrome browser to a different search engine if they so desired.
As a witness for Google, Pichai is likely to face questions about the company’s investments aimed at maintaining the dominance of its online search engine, especially with the rise of smartphones and advancements in search advertising.
During cross-examination, the government is expected to inquire about the substantial sums paid annually to smartphone manufacturers like Apple and wireless carriers like AT&T to ensure Google’s position as the default search engine on their devices.
Google’s dominance in search positions it as a major player in the lucrative advertising market, which is its primary source of revenue. Google has asserted the legality of its revenue share agreements and contended that it has made substantial investments to keep its search and advertising businesses competitive.
Furthermore, Google has argued that dissatisfied users have the option to switch to alternative search providers if they are not content with the default search engine.
