Google Defends Ad Tech Practices Amidst Judges Scrutiny in Antitrust Trial

A Google executive defended the company against the US Justice Department`s antitrust lawsuit, stating that Google faces strong competition in the online advertising technology sector from companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta. However, the judge presiding over the case questioned the executive`s testimony, suggesting it might be biased since Google has been aware of the antitrust concerns since 2019. The judge deemed some of the testimony irrelevant, emphasizing that it didn`t address the lawsuit`s central issues. Despite this, the executive highlighted instances where Google lost business to competitors like Microsoft. The judge, however, prevented Google from presenting evidence of recent partnerships, citing the company`s failure to disclose this information earlier. Google`s defense is set to continue, with the Justice Department having a final opportunity to question witnesses before the trial concludes.