Japan's Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) has ordered Google to cease preferential agreements that favor its services, marking the first cease and desist against a major tech firm. The commission found that Google pressured multiple Android manufacturers to prioritize Google Search and Chrome on their devices, while restricting competitors. As a consequence, Google must amend its advertising revenue agreements and engage an independent auditor for compliance over five years. Google argues that its partnerships support competition and innovation, while Japan's regulatory approach echoes recent changes in the EU.
Google will have to relax parts of its deals related to advertising revenue distribution so phone makers have more options.
The regulator found that Google had asked at least six different Android phone makers for such deals since July 2020.
Japan passed legislation last year that shared similarities to the EU's Digital Markets Act, including preventing self-preferencing moves.
Google expressed disappointment, believing its agreements with Japanese partners promote competition and innovation.
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