Google to pay $700 million in case over whether its app store is an illegal monopoly
NPR Online NewsDEC 2023
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The government is holding Google accountable. Not only does it have to pay a hefty fine, but it also must amend its policies and promote competition in its app stores. Regulators have been piling up victories against Google, and there’s more litigation against the company to come. States and regulators will be holding Google’s feet to the fire for a while.
Establishment-critical narrative
This may seem like a large settlement, but it’s just a slap on the wrist for a big tech monopoly. Google is getting off lightly financially and it can continue its anti-competitive practices. While states may spin this as a win for consumers, it’s just another example of big businesses getting let off the hook.