Apple wants to have a say in the Justice Department’s case against Google. The company filed an emergency motion to pause the trial while it appeals a court decision. This trial will focus on the remedies for Google’s monopolization of search.
Trial Overview
The trial will start in April. A judge, Amit Mehta, already found that Google broke the law by controlling the general search market. Apple is not directly involved in the case but plays a key role. Google pays Apple billions of dollars each year to be the default search engine on iPhones, which helped prove Google’s monopoly.
Apple’s Request Denied
Apple asked to be part of the next phase of the case. The judge denied the request, saying Apple was too late in filing it. However, the judge allowed Apple to submit its views in writing later. Both the Justice Department and state plaintiffs did not want Apple involved. Google did not take a position on the matter.
Why Apple Wants to Be Involved
Apple now believes it should take part in the case. In the first part of the case, Google represented Apple’s interests. But now, Apple says its interests may not be fully covered. The government wants to stop Google from paying Apple for default search placement. Apple says these changes could affect the company in ways that only it can explain.
Potential Harm to Apple
Apple is worried about the government’s plans. If it cannot participate in the trial, it could face serious consequences. The government’s proposed changes might hurt Apple’s business with Google. Apple says it may not be able to defend its right to reach agreements with Google. These agreements could benefit millions of users and Apple’s business.
Need for More Time
Apple asks for more time to appeal the decision. It believes that a delay would be worth it. Apple says it has unique information that could affect the case. For example, it could show how the government’s proposals would hurt Apple. Apple also argues that without its default deal with Google, it would not have created a search engine on its own.
Apple’s Request for Discovery Access
If the court does not delay the trial, Apple asks to be given access to key information. This would allow Apple to see discovery and depositions, even if it is not officially part of the case. Without this access, Apple claims it will suffer “irreparable harm.”
