Microsoft vs. Google: Clash of the Titans

Since last November, the "attacks" had remained indirect, but on Thursday, Microsoft went on the offensive openly. Indeed, a formal complaint for anti-competitive practices was filed with the European Commission against Google by its main competitor. Following this lengthy statement, Brussels confirmed that the complaint would be examined, leaving the possibility for the Commission to subsequently open an investigation.

The grievances

In fact, Microsoft is targeting all of Google's major activities. It's worth remembering that Google controls 95% of the internet search market, while Bing, Microsoft's search engine, remains relatively marginal. More specifically, Google is accused of preventing Microsoft from properly indexing a large portion of the videos appearing on its subsidiary YouTube's website. Furthermore, while Android (Google's operating system) allows for efficient video searching—just like the iPhone—this isn't possible with Microsoft's Windows Phone software.

As for the advertising market, which is largely dominated by Google, Microsoft accuses its competitor of favoring its service at the expense of its own. The law firm Steve Ballmer, retained by its client Microsoft in this case, emphasizes the problems caused by the agreement signed between Google and several book publishers.

Google's response

Officially, Google has acknowledged these accusations. A few weeks ago, one of its spokespeople assured the Commission of its full cooperation, stating that there was "always room for improvement.".
An interesting case to follow in the coming months.

Note: In the United States, several states have also opened investigations against Google. The company is also under investigation at the national level, both for its agreement with the publishing industry and for its acquisition of ITA, a company specializing in information software for the aerospace industry.

Source: www.letemps.ch