Google antitrust probe to expand its investigation into Android business as well: Report

ReutersNov 15, 2019 07:52:41 IST

The 50 attorneys general investigating advertising practices at Alphabet Inc's Google are planning to expand their antitrust probe into the unit's flagship Android business, CNBC reported on Thursday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Google did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The Google probe is being led by the Texas attorney general's office and is known to be focused on its search and digital advertising businesses.

(Also read: Here’s an explainer on why Google is being hounded by the US antitrust regulators)

Last year, Google was fined 4.34 billion euros (£3.74 billion) by the European Commission. Image: Pixabay

The Alphabet unit also faces two other major inquiries — a US Justice Department investigation and a probe by the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee — both of which have broad reviews of the big internet companies underway.

(Also read: Google’s antitrust proposal is not helping shopping rivals: EU antitrust chief)

Last year, Google was fined 4.34 billion euros (£3.74 billion) by the European Commission, saying the tech giant gave itself an unfair advantage by pre-installing its Chrome browser and Google search app on Android smartphones and notebooks.

(Also read: Google requests Texas judge to ensure confidentiality in antitrust probe)