In Brussels on January 28th, Google's Alphabet unit appealed a record-breaking EU antitrust fine of 4.3 billion euros ($4.5 billion) imposed on the tech giant seven years ago, arguing that the penalty stifled innovation. Two years ago, a lower tribunal found Google guilty of using its Android mobile operating system to stifle competition, reducing the fine to 4.1 billion euros.

Google's lawyer, Alfonso Lamadrid, asserted before the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union that the European Commission failed in its investigation, market-shaping attempts, and the imposition of hefty fines. He defended Google's practices, contending that requiring phone manufacturers to pre-install Google Search, Chrome, and the Play store on Android devices encouraged, rather than hindered, competition, contrary to the Commission's findings. 

The court will issue a final decision in the upcoming months, with no possibility for further appeals. Currently facing scrutiny over its ad tech business, Google awaits a ruling expected later this year. The case is labeled C-738/22 P - Google and Alphabet v Commission.
($1 = 0.9533 euros)