Japan launches anti-monopoly probe into Google’s search dominance

The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) has initiated an investigation into Google for potential violations of Japan’s Antimonopoly Act in its web search services. The probe focuses on whether Google engaged in anti-competitive practices by requiring Android smartphone manufacturers to abstain from installing rival search engines in exchange for a portion of its revenue. Additionally, the JFTC is looking into Google’s practice of mandating the installation of its “Google Search” and “Google Chrome” browser applications alongside the “Google Play” app on Android devices. The JFTC emphasized that the concern is not about the popularity of Google’s services, but rather ensuring fair competition in the market. This move by the JFTC mirrors similar investigations into Google’s practices by antitrust regulators in the European Union, the United States, and other major economies.

Source – CGTN