Brussels (Business Emerge), September 5: A recent opinion from a Court Advocate General suggests that Google’s restrictions on accessing its Android Auto platform could potentially breach EU competition regulations. This stance aligns with concerns raised by Italy’s antitrust authority against Google’s practices.
In 2021, Alphabet Inc.’s Google was fined €102 million by the Italian antitrust regulator for obstructing Enel’s JuicePass app from accessing Android Auto. This app enables drivers to use maps on their dashboards and send messages while driving.
Advocate General Laila Medina has indicated that Google’s refusal to allow third-party apps like JuicePass on its Android Auto platform might contravene competition laws. Medina highlighted that if such actions hinder or delay third-party access in a way that harms consumers and lacks objective justification, it could be deemed an abuse of market dominance.
Google had previously defended its actions by citing security concerns and the lack of a standard template for compatibility. The company has appealed to the Italian Council of State and has since taken steps to address the compatibility issue. A Google spokesperson mentioned that the company is awaiting the final court decision and has already integrated a template requested by Enel. Many similar apps are now available globally on Android Auto.