Home | Newsletters & Shorts | DW Weekly #187 – 22 November 2024

DW Weekly #187 – 22 November 2024

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Dear readers,

The US Department of Justice (DoJ) launched an aggressive case against Google, that proposes the tech giant ends exclusive agreements in which it pays billions of dollars annually to Apple and other device vendors to make its search engine the default on their tablets and smartphones. The proposals are extensive, suggesting measures such as prohibiting Google from re-entering the browser market for five years and requiring the company to sell its Android mobile operating system if other remedies do not restore competition. Additionally, the DoJ has proposed banning Google from acquiring or investing in competitors in search, query-based AI technologies, or advertising tools. Publishers and websites would also be offered the option to exclude their content from being used to train Google’s AI systems. Such an unprecedented legal dispute resulted from a ruling earlier this year, which found that Google had illegally monopolised the online search market. The government also seeks measures to regulate how Google handles AI and Android operating systems to foster a more competitive digital marketplace.

The proposed divestiture of Chrome would significantly impact Google’s business model, as the browser plays a crucial role in channelling users to its search engine and ads platform. Chrome commands a 61% share of the US browser market and processes 90% of online searches, which are central to Google’s strategy for collecting user data to target ads. If the court agrees to the sale, it could alter how users interact with Google’s ecosystem, potentially diminishing its control over the search and advertising sectors.

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The main claim of this federal case is the belief that Google’s monopoly on web browsing and search stifles competition, limits consumer choice, and harms innovation. Google could choose to sell the software as an alternative to complying with the requirements. Any prospective buyers would need approval from the DoJ and state antitrust authorities. Otherwise, the DoJ case wants Google to license its search results to competitors at minimal cost and provide user data it collects to competitors free of charge. The company would also be prohibited from gathering user data that cannot be shared due to privacy restrictions. The suggested measures would allow websites more freedom to control their content and create greater ad market transparency, levelling the playing field for emerging AI companies and search engines that rely on Google’s data to improve their services.

One of the most notable aspects of this case is its potential to reshape the AI landscape. Google has incorporated AI into its search function, offering AI-driven ‘overviews’ at the top of its search results. This innovation, however, has drawn criticism from website publishers who argue that it deprives them of web traffic and ad revenue. The government’s recommendation would force Google to license its search data and make it more accessible to competitors, potentially allowing AI startups to create rival search engines and AI applications that could challenge Google’s dominance.

The proposal to uncouple Android from Google’s other services, like search and the Google Play Store, could still have far-reaching consequences. By separating these products, Google would no longer be able to use its mobile operating system to push its search engine and other services onto users.

DoJ’s win in this legal dispute could mark one of the most significant antitrust actions against a major tech company since the US government failed to break up Microsoft two decades ago. The potential sale of Chrome is just one part of a broader effort to curb Google’s market power and ensure its competitors have a fair chance to succeed in the digital space. The case will not only have implications for Google but could also set the stage for future regulation of the tech industry, especially as AI and data-driven services evolve. 

Finally, it’s worth noting that the trial addressing these measures is scheduled for April 2025, with a final decision expected by August. This timeline provides both President-elect Trump and the DoJ with an opportunity to adjust their approach if desired.

In other news…

Australia introduces groundbreaking bill to ban social media for children under 16

Australia’s government introduced a bill to parliament aiming to ban social media use for children under 16, with potential fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million) for platforms that fail to comply.

Brendan Carr to lead FCC in Trump’s push for deregulation

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Brendan Carr to lead the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Carr, an FCC commissioner since 2017, is a familiar figure within the administration and has aligned his policy views with Trump’s conservative agenda, particularly concerning free speech and deregulation..

Follow other ‘Highlights from the week’ in its section below…

More updates and other topics on our dig.watch portal!

Marko and the Digital Watch team


Highlights from the week of 15-22 November 2024

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Challenges include securing orbital slots, addressing technical skill gaps, and finalising funding sources.

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Ireland steps up efforts on AI privacy regulation.

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The proposal coincides with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high price of $93,477 and a market cap of over $1.7 trillion.

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New AI course helps the use of ChatGPT.

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ByteDance is challenging a US law requiring TikTok divestment, with court decisions expected soon.

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Promise joins the generative AI boom, aiming to transform content creation with Hollywood stakeholders.

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AB 3030 sets guidelines for AI in patient communication.

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Europe’s new rules could reshape trade relations with China, focusing on batteries and green technology.

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Ray-Ban Meta glasses now include voice-activated AI in Europe, though some features remain unavailable.

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The UNDP and Danish digital provider cBrain are partnering to accelerate Africa’s digital transformation by improving e-governance, financial inclusion, and climate resilience.


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During a recent visit to Abu Dhabi, I explored the UAE’s innovative AI strategies emphasizing societal benefit and human-centric development. My engagements included a leadership course at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and discussions with diplomats and tech experts. Key insights highlighted the UAE’s clarity in AI policy, proactive governmental engagement, and a user-centered governance approach. I was particularly impressed by their careful timing in AI regulation and commitment to open-source initiatives. Overall, the UAE’s comprehensive and bottom-up approach to AI left me inspired and eager to learn more about regional advancements in Riyadh.

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