FTC Outlines Concerns After Jury Finds Google Illegally Monopolized App Store

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed an amicus brief in the ongoing antitrust case Epic Games Inc. v. Google LLC, where a jury found Google liable for illegally monopolizing its app store. The FTC's brief emphasizes the need for effective remedies that not only halt Google's illegal conduct but also restore competition in the digital marketplace. It argues that any injunctive relief should prevent Google from benefiting from its monopolistic practices and should consider the unique characteristics of digital markets, such as network effects and data feedback loops. Google has raised concerns about the feasibility and burden of complying with potential remedies, but the FTC asserts that these concerns should not excuse the need for compliance. The Commission's vote to file the brief was 3-0-2, with two commissioners recused due to prior involvement in related cases. The FTC aims to ensure that monopolists do not escape the consequences of their actions, which have harmed millions of users.

- The FTC filed an amicus brief in the Epic Games v. Google antitrust case.

- The brief calls for remedies that restore competition and prevent Google from benefiting from its illegal monopolization.

- Google has expressed concerns about the burden of compliance with potential remedies.

- The FTC emphasizes that compliance costs are not a valid excuse for monopolistic behavior.

- The Commission's vote to file the brief was 3-0-2, with two commissioners recused.