Google’s Proposal for Android App Store Unbundling in Response to DOJ Breakup Efforts
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Google’s Counteroffer to Government Attempting Breakup: Unbundling Android Apps
In a bid to address the US Department of Justice’s (DOJ) efforts to break up the tech giant, Google has proposed a counteroffer that focuses on unbundling its Android app store offerings. The move is seen as an attempt by the company to avoid being forced to sell off key assets like Chrome and Android.
According to sources close to the matter, Google’s proposal would involve blocking deals that link licenses for Chrome, Search, and its Android app store, Google Play, with placement or preinstallation of other Google apps. This move would effectively decouple these services and prevent Google from prioritizing its own offerings over those of competitors.
Under the proposed solution, Google would still be allowed to pay for default search placement in browsers but only under certain conditions. The company’s proposal also includes a requirement that any deals must allow for multiple placements across different platforms or browsing modes. Additionally, Google has agreed to revisit these agreements at least once a year, allowing for adjustments and potential revisions as needed.
Google’s counteroffer is seen as an attempt to demonstrate its commitment to competition and fair practices in the market. However, it remains unclear whether this proposal will be enough to satisfy the DOJ and other regulatory bodies.
The DOJ had previously proposed that Google must sell Chrome and Android in order to address concerns around search engine dominance and potential harm to competitors. In response, Google’s lawyers have emphasized that the company’s primary concern is ensuring that users are able to access its search services freely and without restriction.
In a statement on its blog, Google regulatory VP Lee-Anne Mulholland noted that the decision by Judge Amit Mehta “was about our search distribution contracts.” Therefore, the proposed remedies are directed at that specific issue.
Source: www.theverge.com
