Sundar Pichai warns antitrust trials could extend for years, 'this seriously harms Google'
PTC News Desk: In a recent statement, Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, emphasized that the company's ongoing antitrust challenges could extend for several years, suggesting that these legal issues do not currently threaten the company's operations. He stated, “It’s going to take time for it to play out. Where we think it really harms our ability to innovate on behalf of our users, we are going to be vigorous in defending ourselves.”
This declaration comes as Google finds itself embroiled in two significant antitrust trials initiated by the U.S. Justice Department. The government alleges that Google holds an illegal monopoly in both the digital advertising market and online search. The trial concerning the advertising sector commenced in court earlier this month, while Google has faced setbacks in the search case, having already lost that initial round.
Addressing the ongoing legal battles, Pichai remarked, “We definitely disagree with the ruling, but it’s still in the middle of the remedies phase. And you know, we will appeal, and this process will likely take many years.” He highlighted the lengthy nature of such legal disputes by referencing Google’s recent success in the European Union General Court, where the company overturned a €1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) antitrust fine—a victory that came more than four years after the penalty was imposed.
In addition to addressing legal matters, Pichai announced the launch of a new initiative: the $120 million ‘Global AI Opportunity Fund’. This fund aims to enhance AI education and training worldwide, with a particular emphasis on local languages and collaboration with non-profits and NGOs.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Pichai shared an anecdote from his childhood in Chennai, India. He noted that the introduction of new technologies significantly improved the quality of life for his family. Pichai recalled, “I didn’t have much access to one growing up. When I came to graduate school in the U.S., there were labs full of machines I could use anytime I wanted – it was mind-blowing.” This experience shaped his perspective on technology and its transformative potential in people's lives.
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- With inputs from agencies
