The core of the US government's argument against Google as an illegal monopoly centers on the ease of changing the default search engine on iPhones. The process involves just four taps and a swipe, which Apple executive Eddy Cue explained during the trial, and users are free to do as they wish, but Apple's inclination toward Google is driven by strategic considerations.
Apple executives claim they chose Google as the default search engine because it is a better product. Apple defended its practice of selling default placement to Google, arguing that it enhances the user experience and that changing defaults was "pretty easy." Cue has also claimed in federal court that it’s Google’s search quality that secured its place on the iPhone and other Apple devices for over two decades.
The antitrust trial, which is the most significant since the Microsoft case in 1998, revolves around the design of apps and user interfaces. The government alleges that Google's default deals stifle competition, while Google maintains that its products are superior and that users can easily change settings.
As Microsoft's CEO, Satya Nadella has used his testimony to criticize both Apple and Google this month, he recently questioned why Google had to pay Apple for default placement if it believed in the quality of its own search engine. Apple defended its practice of selling default placement to Google, arguing that it enhances the user experience and that changing defaults was "pretty easy." Cue has also claimed in federal court that it’s Google’s search quality that secured its place on the iPhone and other Apple devices for over two decades.
John Giannandrea, Apple's senior vice president of Machine Learning and AI Strategy, also testified in the trial and affirmed Google as the superior search engine choice over Bing when given the option. According to Giannandrea, Apple had considered several different search options for Safari, including Bing, but Google was overwhelmingly seen as the better option.
Apple had looked into partnering with, investing in, or even buying Bing at various times. However, all of the options presented raised concerns, including directly challenging Google's "excellent" search product
The trial, which officially began last month, is expected to continue with Google's defense presenting its arguments in court in the coming weeks.