Google is reportedly in talks with European Union regulators in an attempt to resolve an antitrust investigation into the company.
Reutersreports that negotiations are underway that could stave off the threat of a substantial fine for the Internet giant.
The investigationbeganfollowing allegations from three European search enginesFoundem, Microsoft-ownedCiaoand French legal search engineeJustice, that Google was giving preference to its own services over those of rivals. The probe thenextendedbeyond search into Googles News and Maps services following additional complaints from German publishing bodiesBDZVandVDZ, and mapping serviceEuro-Cities.
Although it is expected to be many months before the case is resolved, it’s most definitely in Google’s interests to reach a settlement. The European Commission is able to fine companies up to 10% of their global turnover. In 2009, itfinedIntel a record $1.4bn for using unfair sales tactics, while Microsoft has receivedmultiple finesover abuses of its dominance in the market.
Story byMartin SFP Bryant
Martin SFP Bryant is the founder of UK startup newsletter PreSeed Now and technology and media consultancy Big Revolution. He was previously(show all)Martin SFP Bryant is the founder of UK startup newsletterPreSeed Nowand technology and media consultancyBig Revolution. He was previously Editor-in-Chief at TNW.
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