Google’s Access Denial May Violate Competition Rules

By Foo Yun Chee

BRUSSELS (Reuters) – Google’s refusal to allow an e-mobility app developed by Enel (BIT:ENEI) access to its Android Auto platform may breach competition rules, according to an adviser to Europe’s top court, supporting Italy’s antitrust authority.

In 2021, the Italian antitrust regulator fined Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL) unit Google 102 million euros ($113.2 million) for blocking Enel’s JuicePass from Android Auto. This software allows drivers to navigate with maps directly on their car dashboards and send messages while driving.

Court Advocate General Laila Medina stated, “Google’s refusal to provide third-party access to the Android Auto platform may be in breach of competition rules.” Medina explained that a company abuses its dominant position if its actions exclude, obstruct, or delay third-party app access, especially if such conduct harms consumers without objective justification.

Google defended its actions, citing security concerns and the lack of a specific template for JuicePass’s compatibility with Android Auto. The company has appealed to the Italian Council of State and noted that it has begun efforts to resolve the issue since the case activation. A Google spokesperson said, “We note the opinion of the Advocate General and await the final decision of the Court. Since this case started, we have worked to add the template Enel asked for, and many similar apps are already available globally on Android Auto.”

CJEU judges are expected to rule in the coming months and typically follow the majority of such non-binding opinions. The case is referred to as C-233/23 Alphabet and Others.

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