Google’s decision to deny Enel SpA’s e-mobility app, JuicePass, access to its Android Auto platform could face legal challenges on antitrust grounds, according to an advisor to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). This opinion comes after Italy’s antitrust authority fined Google’s parent company, Alphabet Inc., €102 million ($113.2 million) in 2021 for blocking JuicePass from Android Auto.
The advisor, Court Advocate General Laila Medina, argues that Google’s refusal to integrate JuicePass into Android Auto constitutes an abuse of its dominant market position. She contends that Google’s actions obstruct access for third-party app developers, leading to anti-competitive outcomes that negatively impact consumers.
JuicePass is an app designed to allow electric vehicle owners to manage their charging processes remotely. Google’s initial rationale for blocking the app cited concerns about security and the lack of a specific template for compatibility with Android Auto. However, Google has appealed this decision and stated that it has since taken steps to address the issue, including adding the requested template. Google also emphasizes that many similar apps are already available globally on Android Auto.
The CJEU judges, who will issue a final ruling in the coming months, often follow the majority of non-binding opinions. While this is a significant development in the case, it remains to be seen how the judges will ultimately rule on the matter.
It’s worth noting that Alphabet’s stock price closed at $158.60 on Thursday, up 0.50%. Several exchange-traded funds (ETFs) holding Alphabet shares also experienced gains on Thursday.
