A landmark trial against Google could change the internet as we know it.

On Trial

The Story

A landmark trial against Google could change the internet as we know it.

Catch me up.

Today, closing arguments are expected to wrap up in what an expert is calling the “most important antitrust trial of the 21st century.” The Justice Department alleges that Google has illegally maintained a monopoly over the search engine business, stifling competition from other tech companies like Microsoft and DuckDuckGo. During the trial, DOJ lawyers said Google spent $26.3 billion in 2021 to ensure it was the default search engine for smartphones and web browsers, reportedly giving Apple $18 billion alone. Google’s argument is that its search engine is top dog simply because it’s the best. The judge’s ruling, which is expected in the coming months, could be a sign of what’s to come.

What do you mean?

In recent years, the government has sued some of tech’s biggest names — like Amazon, Meta, and Apple — over their business practices. But the case against Google is the first high-profile antitrust trial in more than two decades. The fate of the company is now in the judge’s hands and his decision could affect how people use the internet in the future. That could look like Google no longer being the default search engine on certain products. Experts predict it’s unlikely the judge will break up the company or absolve it completely, but instead will land somewhere in the middle and order the tech giant to overhaul some of its business practices.

theSkimm

For years, Big Tech has seemed untouchable. Now, the government’s case against Google could change how the world’s most popular search engine operates and how users engage with it.

Who’s sharing her story…

Brittney Griner. The WNBA star, who was imprisoned in Russia for nearly 10 months, opened up about her experience for the first time in an ABC News special earlier this week. In 2022, Griner flew to Russia to play during the WNBA offseason when she was detained for carrying cannabis oil. She was sentenced to nine years in prison and transferred to a penal colony. Griner said the filthy living conditions in prison made her feel “less than a human.” She said she contemplated suicide several times, but that the thought of her loved ones pushed her to endure her time behind bars. The WNBA star’s memoir, which shares more about her time in prison, comes out next week.

What parents might want to toss…

Weighted infant sleepwear. Amazon and Target have pulled the products from their shelves amid warnings from doctors and federal regulators that they could hinder babies’ ability to breathe and pump blood. The American Academy of Pediatrics called the retailers’ move “a strong first step.” One Democratic senator has called on the FTC to investigate two weighted baby sleepwear companies: Dreamland Baby and Nested Bean. Both refute any claims that their products are unsafe.

Where things are spinning…

Peloton. Yesterday, the company announced CEO Barry McCarthy is stepping down and that it’s laying off 15% of its workforce. It comes as the company’s shares have plummeted 90% from their peak four years ago. McCarthy will serve as a strategic advisor through the end of the year.

What’s apparently not all hot and bothered...

Hollywood.

Who gave her take on “Challengers”...

Naomi Osaka.

What could be cheaper than a wedding planner…

Artificial intelligence.

Who’s got fans saying “And Just Like That”…

Rosie O’Donnell.

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