Hello everyone. Today’s update is focused on the U.S. vs. Google search antitrust trial taking place in Washington. We begin with a brief summary of the trial. The discussion then turns to Neil’s thoughts on Eddy Cue’s and Satya Nadella’s testimonies.

U.S. vs. Google

Last month, the Justice Department’s civil trial against Google kicked off in Washington. The trial is focused on Google search with a spotlight put on Google’s deal with Apple to be default search on Safari.

The argument being made by the U.S. Justice Department is that these default search deals have helped Google prevent competitors, like Microsoft, from getting search queries and therefore the ability to improve their own search product(s). The agreements with Apple etc. are also said to hurt innovation as Google doesn’t need to do as much to maintain its search position since it can simply pay for continued prioritized access to users. All of this is alleged to result in higher prices for advertisers and less choice for consumers.

Google’s response is that it has the best search product in the marketplace. As it pertains to the Apple deal,

An Above Avalon membership is required to continue reading this update. Members can read the full update here . An audio version of this update is available to members who have the podcast add-on attached to their membership. More information about the podcast add-on is found here.

(Members: Daily Updates are always accessible by logging into Slack. If you haven’t logged into Slack before, fill out this form to receive an invite.)

Above Avalon Membership

Subscribe $20/month

Subscribe $200/year

Payment is processed and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. Special Inside Orchard bundle pricing is available for Above Avalon members.

More information about Above Avalon membership, including the full list of benefits and privileges, is available here.