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Apple’s Attempt to Pause Google Search Monopoly Trial Denied

In a significant ruling, US District Court Judge Amit Mehta has rejected Apple’s urgent request to suspend the ongoing trial regarding Google’s search monopoly. This trial has the potential to significantly impact the lucrative search partnership between Apple and Google, estimated to be worth around $18 billion annually.

Judge Mehta delivered the decision late on Sunday, citing that Apple had failed to provide sufficient justification for its emergency appeal submitted on January 30.

Apple argued that its involvement in the trial was crucial. The tech giant expressed concerns over preserving its ability to negotiate alternative agreements with Google that would be advantageous not only for the company but also for millions of users. Additionally, Apple highlighted its right to receive compensation for channeling Google search to its customers.

In his order, Judge Mehta stated, “Because Apple has not satisfied the ‘stringent requirements’ for obtaining the ‘extraordinary relief’ of a stay pending appeal, its motion is denied.” He further clarified that Apple had not demonstrated a strong likelihood of winning its case, pointing out the absence of concrete evidence showing how the company would face “certain and great” harm if the trial proceeds without interruption.

This ruling reflects a pivotal moment in the ongoing scrutiny of tech giants and their competitive practices, as the trial aims to examine Google’s market dominance in the search engine sector and its implications for both consumers and competing businesses.

Source
www.theverge.com