Milan: Italy`s competitors watchdog mentioned on Thursday (May 12) it had fined Google 102 million euros ($123 million) for abuse of its dominant position as a result of its Android cellular working system and app retailer Google Play.
“Through android and the app store Google Play, Google has a dominant position which allows it to control the reach app developers have on final users,” the regulator mentioned in a press release, including that nearly three-quarters of Italians use smartphones operating on Android.
The regulator mentioned Google didn’t enable JuicePass, an electrical automobile (EV) companies app from Enel X, to function on Android Auto – which permits apps for use whereas driving – unfairly limiting its use whereas favouring Google Maps.
Google has not been permitting the app on Android Auto for two years, which may compromise Enel X`s potential to construct a person base, the watchdog mentioned.
“The contested conduct can influence the development of e-mobility in a crucial phase … with possible negative spill-over effects on the spreading of electric vehicles,” the antitrust regulator mentioned.
Enel X is the “e-solutions” division of Italian utility Enel and Juice Pass primarily permits customers to seek out charging stations on maps and examine their particulars.
On high of the positive, the regulator mentioned it had requested Google make JuicePass out there on Android Auto.
Google was not instantly out there for remark.
