Japan Fair Trade Commission Orders Google to Cease Antitrust Practices on Android Devices

Tokyo, Japan - On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) issued a cease and desist order against Google, marking Japan's first formal action against a major Silicon Valley company concerning antitrust issues. The JFTC found that Google's agreements with Android phone manufacturers unfairly favored its search engine and apps on Android devices, putting competitors at a disadvantage.

The JFTC's investigation, which began in October 2023, revealed that Google imposed conditions on Android smartphone manufacturers in Japan since at least July 2020. Specifically, Google ensured its online app store, Google Play, was pre-installed with its Chrome web browser. The commission also found Google offered extra ad revenue to companies that complied with these conditions.

Google has been instructed to stop requiring pre-installs of its apps and search service, allow the installation of rivals' offerings, and give users the choice of a default search service. Google expressed disappointment with the JFTC's findings but has committed to cooperating with the commission's order. The company will implement a third-party monitor to review its business practices.