Google's dominance in mapping is now the topic of an investigation led by the U.S. Justice Department.
The agency is looking into Google's service terms that require app developers to jointly use its maps and search products.
The probe is examining whether this bundling illegally restricts competition in mapping and other areas.
- The DOJ has reportedly accelerated the probe in recent weeks, re-interviewing competitors, customers, and other potential witnesses for a possible lawsuit.
- Rivals have accused Google of limiting innovation in logistics, drones, and electric and autonomous vehicles.
- Additionally, the DOJ is said to be investigating the way Google packages maps, its voice assistant, and its app store for carmakers.
Depending on the findings, the DOJ could open a new antitrust complaint against Google as soon as this year.
- It would be the department's third antitrust complaint against the search giant.
- Last month, the DOJ filed a lawsuit accusing Google of abusing its dominance in the digital advertising market.
- This is in addition to its ongoing suit that accuses Google of suppressing competition in the online search market, which is scheduled to go to trial in September.
