Google Trial Judge: Tech Giant Holds Illegal Ad Monopoly

Core Viewpoint - A federal judge has ruled that Google holds an illegal monopoly on online advertising technology, which could reshape the company's power over the internet [1][2]. Group 1: Legal Ruling and Implications - Judge Leonie Brinkema found that Google's actions violated the law to establish dominance in the online advertising system, harming competitors, publisher customers, and consumers [1][2]. - The ruling adds to Google's existing legal troubles, which could significantly alter its operations and influence in the digital landscape [2]. Group 2: Google's Response - Google plans to appeal the ruling, asserting that its advertiser tools and acquisitions, such as DoubleClick, do not harm competition [3]. - The company argues that publishers choose Google for its ad tech tools due to their simplicity, affordability, and effectiveness [3]. Group 3: Market Competition - Expert testimony highlighted that the focus on "open web display advertising" overlooks the broader competition Google faces from social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, as well as online retailers like Amazon [4]. Group 4: Additional Legal Challenges - The ruling follows a previous decision that found Google holds a monopoly in online search, with the DOJ considering a request to break up the company and sell parts of its AdTech business [5]. - Google is also facing a $6.6 billion lawsuit in the UK for allegedly exploiting its dominant position in the online search market to inflate advertising costs [5]. Group 5: Company Stance - Google has labeled the case as meritless, describing it as "yet another speculative and opportunistic case" [6].