Microsoft is leading a multicompany charge against Google, alleging the company committed antitrust violations and asking that European authorities investigate its mobile smartphone sales and marketing techniques.
The group, called FairSearch and made up of Microsoft, Nokia and Oracle, to name just a few, said Google has crossed antitrust lines by giving away for free its Android system on mobile phones — but at the same time mandating companies first install software applications offered by the company, like YouTube, before accessing it, The Associated Press reported.
Android is the operating system with the biggest smartphone market share. Next in line: Systems developed by Apple, Blackberry and then Microsoft, AP reported.
FairSearch filed the complaint with the European Commission body tasked with investigating antitrust cases. The body is not required to take investigative action, AP reported. By law, it only has to reply to the complaint and confirm its receipt.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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