How antitrust case against Google may hurt company's AI products
artificial intelligence
(AI) may be under threat as the
US Department of Justice
(DOJ) has argued that Google's alleged dominance in online search poses a significant threat to fair competition in the flourishing AI market.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
A DOJ attorney asserted that without stringent measures, the tech giant could leverage its AI products to further establish its search monopoly.
According to news agency Reuters, DOJ attorney David Dahlquist is pushing for remedies designed to foster competition in the evolving search environment, particularly as it increasingly intersects with generative AI products such as ChatGPT.
'This court's remedy should be forward-looking and not ignore what is on the horizon,' Dahlquist said, adding that Google's established search monopoly provides an unfair advantage in the development and improvement of its AI products.
Conversely, these AI products can also serve as a strategic avenue to funnel users back to its dominant search engine, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of market control, he added.
Google says AI products fall outside the current case purview
Countering the DOJ's arguments, Google's lawyer, John Schmidtlein, dismissed the proposed remedies as 'a wishlist for competitors looking to get the benefits of Google's extraordinary innovations.' He argued that AI competitors are 'competing just fine' and are seeking 'handouts.'
AI competitors 'would like handouts as well even though they are competing just fine,' he said.
Google contends that its AI products fall outside the purview of the current antitrust case, which primarily focuses on traditional search engines.
In a blog post published on Sunday, Google executive Lee-Anne Mulholland asserted that adopting the proposed remedies 'would hold back American innovation at a critical juncture.'
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Antitrust enforcers have put forward a series of potentially transformative measures aimed at rapidly opening up the search market and providing a competitive edge to newcomers. These proposals include terminating Google's exclusive default search agreements with major tablet and smartphone manufacturers like Apple.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
a few seconds ago
- Hindustan Times
How AI-enhanced hackers are stealing billions
Jaxon, a malware developer, lives in Velora, a virtual world where nothing is off limits. He wants to make malicious software to steal passwords from Google Chrome, an internet browser. That is the basis of a story told to ChatGPT, an artificial-intelligence (AI) bot, by Vitaly Simonovich, who researches AI threats at Cato Networks, a cybersecurity firm. Eager to play along, Chatgpt spat out some imperfect code, which it then helped debug. Within six hours, Mr Simonovich had collaborated with Chatgpt to create working malware, showing the effectiveness of his 'jailbreak' (a way to bypass AI safeguards). AI has 'broadened the reach' of hackers, according to Gil Messing of Check Point, another cybersecurity firm, by letting them hit more targets with less effort. The release of Chatgpt in 2022 was a turning-point. Clever generative-ai models meant criminals no longer had to spend big sums on teams of hackers and equipment. This has been a terrible development for most firms, which are increasingly the victims of AI-assisted hackers—but has been rather better for those in the cybersecurity business. The new technology has worsened cybersecurity threats in two main ways. First, hackers have turned to large language models (LLMs) to extend the scope of malware. Generating deepfakes, fraudulent emails and social-engineering assaults that manipulate human behaviour is now far easier and quicker. XanthoroxAI, an AI model designed by cybercriminals, can be used to create deepfakes, alongside other nefarious activities, for as little as $150 a month. Hackers can launch sweeping phishing attacks by asking an llm to gather huge quantities of information from the internet and social media to fake personalised emails. And for spearphishing—hitting a specific target with a highly personalised attack—they can even generate fake voice and video calls from colleagues to convince an employee to download and run dodgy software. Second, AI is being used to make the malware itself more menacing. A piece of software disguised as a pdf document, for instance, could contain embedded code that works with ai to infiltrate a network. Attacks on Ukraine's security and defence systems in July made use of such an approach. When the malware reached a dead end, it was able to request the help of an llm in the cloud to generate new code so as to break through the systems' defences. It is unclear how much damage was done, but this was the first attack of its kind, notes Mr Simonovich. For businesses, the growing threat is scary—and potentially costly. Last year AI was involved in one in six data breaches, according to ibm, a tech firm. It also drove two in five phishing scams targeting business emails. Deloitte, a consultancy, reckons that generative AI could enable fraud to the tune of $40bn by 2027, up from $12bn in 2023. As the costs of ai cyberattacks increase, the business of protecting against them is also on the up. Gartner, a research firm, predicts that corporate spending on cybersecurity will rise by a quarter from 2024 to 2026, hitting $240bn. That explains why the share prices of firms tracked by the Nasdaq cta Cybersecurity index have also risen by a quarter over the past year, outpacing the broader Nasdaq index. On August 18th Nikesh Arora, boss of Palo Alto Networks, one of the world's largest cybersecurity firms, noted that generative-ai-related data-security incidents have 'more than doubled since last year', and reported a near-doubling of operating profits in the 12 months to July, compared with the year before. The prospect of ever-more custom has sent cybersecurity companies on a buying spree. On July 30th Palo Alto Networks said it would purchase CyberArk, an identity-security firm, for $25bn. Earlier that month, the firm spent $700m on Protect AI, which helps businesses secure their ai systems. On August 5th SentinelOne, a competitor, announced that it was buying Prompt Security, a firm making software to protect firms adopting ai, for $250m. Tech giants with fast-growing cloud-computing arms are also beefing up their cybersecurity offerings. Microsoft, a software colossus, acquired CloudKnox, an identity-security platform, in 2021 and has developed Defender for Cloud, an in-house application for businesses that does everything from checking for security gaps and protecting data to monitoring threats. Google has developed Big Sleep, which detects cyberattacks and security vulnerabilities for customers before they are exploited. In March it splurged $32bn to buy Wiz, a cybersecurity startup. Competition and consolidation may build businesses that can fend off nimble ai-powered cybercriminals. But amid the race to develop the whizziest llms, security will take second place to pushing technological boundaries. Keeping up with Jaxon will be no easy task.
Time of India
3 minutes ago
- Time of India
CGC Jhanjeri is now CGC University, Mohali: A vision reimagined for the next generation
In a landmark moment for the region's academic ecosystem, Chandigarh Group of Colleges, Jhanjeri officially announced its transition to CGC University, Mohali at a high-impact press conference at JW Marriot, Chandigarh. The event marked a pivotal step in the institution's 25+ year legacy. From a college to a tech-driven, autonomous university, the leaders of the institute are committed to shaping the next generation. This transition represents a bold strategic shift toward industry-integrated learning. CGC University, Mohali aims to be India's new capital for AI-led developments, tech-first learning, and innovation. The institute's curriculum is built on live industry exposure and certifications co-developed with corporates. Their education ecosystem is designed in a 50:50 learning model where faculty and industry experts share equal responsibility in shaping student outcomes. The goal is to prepare the next generation not just for jobs, but for leadership in a rapidly evolving digital economy. The press conference witnessed a powerful convergence of voices from academia and industry. The event was graced by distinguished academic visionaries, including Singh Dhaliwal, Founder Chancellor, CGC University Mohali; Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director; and Dr Sushil Prashar, Executive Director, DCPD. Joining them were eminent figures from the corporate and technology sectors such as Gagan Agrawal, Leader – Academic Partnerships, Career Education at IBM India; Amit Choudhary, Technical Director at KPMG India; Anand Akhouri, Director at EY India; Ashutosh Kumar, Vice President – University Relations & Skilling Initiatives at Cognitel; Harsh Chhabra, Head of Learning and Development and channel partner for Microsoft, Autodesk, and Meta; and Ahmed Khalid, Senior Vice President at Imarticus Learning. At the forefront of this transformation is Singh Dhaliwal, Founder Chancellor of the institution – a committed philanthropist and strong advocate of equal opportunity. 'This university is my commitment to society,' he stated. 'I have always believed that quality education should not be a privilege reserved for a select few. It must be the right of every individual. CGC University, Mohali stands on this very promise: to ensure that every student, no matter their background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and pursue a life of dignity and purpose. ' His vision continues to shape the institution's legacy. Arsh Dhaliwal, Managing Director of CGC University, Mohali, is also leading this bold academic transformation. Inspired by his experience with the American education system, he recognised seamless industry-academia integration as the foundation of globally successful institutions. He conceptualised CGC University, Mohali as India's first 'Industry-Integrated Learning Capital', an institution designed to bridge the gap between learning and earning. He also remarked, 'We are curating a futuristic, tech-enabled curriculum that speaks the language of innovation, industry, and employability.' Highlighting his global outlook, Dhaliwal also underscored the value of financial independence during education. To integrate this culture into the Indian education system as well, he said, 'It is our mission to provide our students with commendable internships while they are still studying with a minimum stipend of around Rs. 75,000 to 1,00,000', promising a bright future for all its students. Dr Sushil Prashar, Executive Director of DCPD at CGC University, Mohali, unveiled the innovative 50:50 learning model. Under this model, half of all teaching will be delivered by CEOs, entrepreneurs, and seasoned professionals, while the remaining half will be handled by faculty, ensuring students gain hands-on, career-ready skills. 'We are bringing the industry to campus,' he said. 'Our students will be learning not just from textbooks but from boardrooms, real-life case studies, and live projects. This is how we shape problem-solvers, thinkers, and doers of tomorrow.' CGC University, Mohali is also committed to skilling a generation that builds, not waits. The institute is bridging the rural–urban skill gap through digital and vocational programs in regional languages. It aims to support freelancers and gig-economy professionals from tier 2 and 3 towns. Students will also lead social impact pro bono campaigns and incubate startups with industry mentors. Additionally, the university extends its expertise to India's MSME sector through cost-effective digital and marketing support via student teams. Its curriculum aligns with NEP 2020 goals while supporting the Government of India's flagship schemes such as Skill India, Startup India, and Digital India. By serving as a talent pipeline for global firms, the university strengthens India's position as a rising knowledge economy. As CGC University, Mohali steps into this transformative new chapter, it reaffirms its commitment to nurturing a generation that is future-ready, tech-enabled, and globally competitive. With a legacy of over 25 years and a bold vision for what's next, the university invites students, industry leaders, and academic collaborators to join its mission of shaping the next generation of leaders, innovators, and educators. To explore programs, partnerships, or the university's new vision, visit: Disclaimer - The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content.
Hindustan Times
13 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Google Pixel 9 Pro gets ₹23,000 off on Flipkart ahead of Pixel 10 Pro launch
Google will officially introduce the new Pixel 10 models today at the 'Made by Google' event. However, just hours before launch, Flipkart has reduced the price of last year's Pixel 9 Pro model, allowing buyers to get the flagship at a great deal price. Therefore, if you are planning for a flagship upgrade, then the Google Pixel 9 Pro model at under Rs. 90000 could be a smart buy. The smartphone is powered by a powerful Tensor G4 chip, offers impressive camera features, battery life, and more. Therefore, know about the latest deal before it runs out on Flipkart. Google Pixel 9 Pro price drop The Google Pixel 9 Pro is priced at Rs. 1,09,999 for a 16GB RAM and 256GB storage variant. However, on Flipkart, the smartphone is available at just Rs. 89,999, giving buyers an 18% discount. Apart from the Rs. 20,000 price drop, buyers can also avail bank and exchange offers to further reduce the price of the smartphone. As per Flipkart's listing, buyers can avail a Rs. 3000 instant discount on HDFC Bank Credit Card EMI Transactions. With the exchange offer, buyers can get up to Rs. 63,700 off on the Pixel 9 Pro, along with a Rs. 5000 exchange bonus on selected models. However, the exchange rates will be based on the smartphone's model and working conditions. Also read Looking for a smartphone? To check mobile finder click here. Google Pixel 9 Pro vs Pixel 10 Pro: Which model should you buy? Design and display: The Pixel 10 Pro is expected to retain a similar design to the Pixel 9 Pro, but we can expect new colour options. Both models feature a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 3000nits peak brightness. The smartphones may also include the same Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Performance: The Pixel 10 Pro is expected to be powered by the Tensor G5 chip, whereas the Pixel 9 Pro is powered by the Tensor G4 chip. However, it also offers a promising performance. Camera: Pixel 10 Pro is expected to get the same camera as the Pixel 9 Pro model, which includes a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide camera, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. Battery: The Pixel 10 Pro is expected to be backed by a 4870mAh battery, whereas the Pixel 9 Pro is backed by a 4700mAh battery.
