The European Union’s top judicial body rejected Google's final attempt to overturn a multibillion-dollar antitrust penalty related to its Android operating system practices. The ruling confirms a landmark $4.7 billion fine imposed by EU regulators for allegedly abusing Google’s dominant position by forcing device makers to pre-install Google Search and Chrome, limiting competition.
This decision concludes an eight-year legal struggle dating back to the European Commission’s 2018 accusation that Google engaged in anticompetitive conduct. The fine was slightly reduced from the original amount but remains one of the highest ever levied against a technology company. Alphabet, Google's parent company, saw its shares drop following the ruling, reflecting market concerns over ongoing regulatory pressures.
A Google spokesperson emphasized that Android remains an open platform supporting diverse businesses and noted the company’s adjustments to comply with the initial 2018 decision. They highlighted efforts to expand user choice, such as allowing Android users to select alternative search engines and browsers instead of default Google apps.
However, EU authorities have maintained that these measures are insufficient to address Google's foundational restrictions on competition within the mobile ecosystem. The Android fine is part of a series of major EU actions against Google, including a separate $3.45 billion penalty last year for preferential treatment of its own advertising services.
These rulings form part of a broader European crackdown on Big Tech companies, with several countries introducing digital services taxes aimed at U.S.-based firms. The escalating tensions have drawn criticism from figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump, who accused European regulators of unfair targeting and threatened retaliatory tariffs on European products.