Google Spent $26 Billion to Secure Its Position as the Default Search Engine on Browsers and Phones

 

In 2021, Google allocated a substantial $26.3 billion to sustain its standing as the default search engine across mobile devices and web browsers, a revelation brought to light during a federal antitrust trial. This payment sheds light on the financial arrangements Google has with its partners, with a notable portion likely designated to Apple for their role as the default search engine on their products.

The U.S. Department of Justice and a coalition of state attorneys general have accused Google of leveraging its dominant position in search to bar competitors from pivotal distribution channels, including Apple’s Safari web browser.

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Although the $26.3 billion encompasses various partnerships, it is widely anticipated that Apple is the primary recipient of these payments. Earlier estimates indicated that Google’s annual payment to Apple for maintaining the default search position could reach as high as $19 billion.

Google contends that users retain the option to select their preferred search engine. However, the financial agreements supporting this practice are currently under scrutiny in the ongoing antitrust trial.