Google’s Search Monopoly Faces Explosive Legal Battle with OpenAI’s Nick Turley as Key Witness!

Google’s dominance in search is under scrutiny, as the U.S. seeks to show how it blocks competition. To strengthen its antitrust case, it has enlisted Nick Turley, OpenAI’s head of product for ChatGPT, as a key witness.

In 2024, a court ruled that Google maintains a monopoly in search, prompting discussions about possible penalties. As Google works on its appeal, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is urging the court to consider strict measures, including separating the Chrome browser from the company or restricting its ability to release browser-related products for ten years.

As part of its strategy, the DOJ is calling on executives from competitors like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Perplexity. It has identified Perplexity’s CBO Dmitry Shevelenko as a potential witness, though his participation remains uncertain, with no comment from the company so far.

Recent legal filings confirm Nick Turley will testify on behalf of the DOJ. Turley is expected to address specific topics, including how generative AI interacts with search tools, the challenges new players face entering the market, and the importance of data sharing. Although these themes are central to the case, the DOJ has not disclosed precise questions for Turley.

The term “search access points,” widely referenced in the filings, describes products like Google Chrome that facilitate online searches. This issue has gained renewed focus since OpenAI launched its own AI-powered browser in late 2024.

As Turley’s testimony approaches, Google has subpoenaed OpenAI for a mountain of documents. Tensions have risen as Google accuses OpenAI of withholding key evidence. OpenAI, in turn, argues that Google’s demands are overly broad and intended to burden its senior executives, including CEO Sam Altman.

OpenAI has consented to provide documents related to its AI strategy, integration of AI into search products, and its partnership with Microsoft. However, Google insists on accessing older materials, including those predating ChatGPT’s November 2022 launch, claiming these could undermine Turley’s testimony. OpenAI contends that such records no longer reflect the competitive landscape.

The two sides remain locked in a dispute, with OpenAI urging the court to dismiss Google’s expansive document requests. Neither Google, OpenAI, nor the DOJ has commented on the matter.

Image: DIW-Aigen

H/T: TechCrunch

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by Asim BN via Digital Information World