Stiff penalty imposed by Italian watchdog over Google’s alleged decision to restrict access of one Italian firm to its Android Auto platform
Google has been accused of favouring its Google Map app by preventing an Italian rival app designed for electric cars from accessing its Android Auto platform.
The Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) fined Google 102m euros ($123m) for restricting access to Android Auto by an electric car charging app called JuicePass, made by energy company Enel X Italia.
Android Auto of course allows motorists to pair their Android smartphones to an in-car infotainment system. It also provides access to a number of third party apps, which can be accessed by the car’s infotainment screen.
Google hit with $123M antitrust fine in Italy over Android Auto
Google has been fined just over €100 million (~$123M) by Italy’s antitrust watchdog for abuse of a dominant market position.
The case relates to Android Auto, a modified version of Google’s mobile OS intended for in-car use, and specifically to how Google restricted access to the platform to an electric car charging app, called JuicePass, made by energy company Enel X Italia.
Android Auto lets motorists directly access a selection of relevant apps (like maps and music streaming services) via a dash-mounted screen. But Enel X Italia’s JuicePass app was not one of the third party apps Google granted access to.
(Photo : Pixabay/DariuszSankowski ) Google blocks EV apps
Google has been hit with a fine of over $123 million by Italy s antitrust watchdog for abuse of dominant market position.
The case related to Android Audio, a modified version of Google s mobile OS intended for in-car use.
The case also highlighted how Google restricted access to the platform to an electric car charging app, called JuicePass, made by the company Enel X Italia.
Google Blocking EV App
Android Auto lets motorists directly access a selection of relevant apps through a dash-mounted screen. But Enel X Italia s JuicePass app was not one of the third-party apps Google granted access to, according to TechCrunch.