Regulators in the United States and Europe are challenging the market power of the largest technology companies. Cases move slowly, and outcomes differ, so treat this as a trend to monitor, not a prediction.

Where things stood in our latest review

– Google (search): A U.S. federal court found that Google unlawfully maintained a monopoly in general search. The remedies ordered restrictions on exclusive distribution deals and data-sharing requirements rather than breaking up the company, and the court did not require sale of Chrome or Android. Appeals are in progress.

– Google (ad tech): A separate federal court found Google unlawfully maintained monopolies in parts of the advertising technology market, and remedies were being decided.

– Meta, Amazon, and Apple: The U.S. government and states have brought cases against each. Outcomes and trial timing differ, so check current status.

– Europe: The EU’s Digital Markets Act designates “gatekeepers”, currently including Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, ByteDance, Meta, and Microsoft, and imposes obligations such as interoperability and limits on self-preferencing.

Why business customers should care

– Pricing and bundling: competition rules can limit how vendors tie products together or raise prices

– Interoperability: rules may open platforms to third-party apps, payment methods, and services

– Choice of defaults: browsers, search, and app stores may become easier to change

– AI market: regulators are watching how dominant firms bundle AI features

– Uncertainty: remedies can take years, and appeals can change outcomes

What to do

1. Avoid deep, single-vendor lock-in where practical. Keep data portable.

2. Watch contracts: know renewal dates, bundling terms, and exit options

3. Evaluate alternatives periodically, even if you stay put

4. Don’t plan around legal outcomes. Decide based on your needs today.

5. Follow Canadian developments: the Competition Bureau has been active in digital markets

DBR Soft can help you assess vendor concentration and keep your options open. Contact us for more information.