Google and Its Vestager Adventure
July 7, 2017
I found the analyses of Google’s fine for certain misunderstood and misinterpreted behavior interesting. I noted a round up in that font of legal and technical wisdom, the Hollywood Reporter, which presented pros and cons of the decision. Well, sort of one pro and one con. My question, “Why was the Hollywood Reporter interested in a legal decision seemingly far removed from the concerns of Hollywood?”
I also noted “More Than Money: Why Google’s Antitrust Loss Matters.” One of the points in this write up was that the EU process might qualify some other companies for a day in court with a stop at the toll booth on the way out of the building.
I noted this passage:
These other cases involve: (1) the available range of mobile apps in the Android operating system, and (2) allegations that through AdSense, Google has prevented third-party websites from sourcing search ads. Once complete, these cases could result in similarly hefty fines. Indeed, given the European Commission’s statements regarding the potentiality of findings of abuse, it seems unlikely that Google will escape further punitive measures.
Several observations:
- Google will pay the fine one way or another but there will be some legal excitement on the information highway leading to the pay station
- Other US companies are likely to be getting an invitation to explain their business practices. Brussels and Strasbourg are fun cities with good restaurants and some nice hotels.
- Google will have an opportunity to explain some of its other systems and methods in the future.
I am not sure saying, “Hey, we’re sorry” will work very well. One thing is certain: Google will not ask IBM Watson for its take on the matter.
Stephen E Arnold, July 7, 2017
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