Epic Games files its argument for upholding antitrust ruling against Google

Core Viewpoint - Epic Games has been engaged in a legal battle with Google regarding antitrust violations, particularly focusing on Google's practices that allegedly suppress competition in the app store and payment service markets [1][2][4]. Summary by Sections Legal Proceedings - Epic Games filed a lawsuit against Google in 2020 after its Fortnite game was removed from the Google Play Store, claiming antitrust violations [1]. - A jury previously found Google liable for violating antitrust laws by cutting off Epic during the litigation [2]. - The jury determined that Google illegally tied its app store to its billing service, which was viewed as anticompetitive behavior [3][6]. Evidence and Allegations - Epic Games presented evidence of Google's "Project Hug" deals, where Google allegedly paid developers to avoid competing with its app store [3]. - The company claimed that Google imposed technical barriers to discourage users from obtaining apps outside of Google Play, and paid developers to withhold exclusive content from rival app stores [5]. - Epic stated that only 3% of Android devices in the U.S. have successfully installed competing app stores due to Google's practices [5]. Court's Decision and Remedies - Following a 15-day trial, the jury found Google liable for unlawful restraints of trade and monopolization [6]. - The district court initiated a remedy proceeding, resulting in an injunction designed to halt Google's unlawful conduct while allowing it to compete fairly [7]. - The injunction is set to last for three years and aims to address the adverse effects of Google's actions [7]. Appeals and Future Implications - Google is appealing the verdict but has focused less on its conduct and more on comparisons to a different case involving Apple [8]. - Epic Games argues that the district court's remedies are appropriate and necessary to prevent ongoing antitrust violations [9]. - The court acknowledged potential security risks but allowed Google to maintain its security processes while limiting its ability to use security as a justification for anticompetitive practices [10][12]. Additional Allegations - Epic accused Google of destroying evidence and obstructing competition by requiring OEMs to prioritize its app store and paying for exclusivity [17].