Google has agreed to a A$55 million ($35.8 million) fine in Australia for anti-competitive practices involving payments to major telcos, Telstra and Optus, to pre-install its search app on Android devices. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) stated the arrangement significantly harmed competition from rival engines. ACCC Chair Gina-Cass Gottlieb noted this decision could enhance search choices for Australians and boost visibility for competing providers in the market.
Google has agreed to a A$55 million ($35.8 million) fine in Australia for anti-competitive practices involving payments to major telcos, Telstra and Optus, to pre-install its search app on Android devices. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) stated the arrangement significantly harmed competition from rival engines. ACCC Chair Gina-Cass Gottlieb noted this decision could enhance search choices for Australians and boost visibility for competing providers in the market.