(Photo= Yonhap news)

 

[Alpha Biz= Reporter Kim Sangjin] According to industry sources and related departments on the 8th, the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has concluded its investigation into suspicions that Google increased its market share by bundling YouTube Music with YouTube Premium, and has initiated sanction proceedings.

The FTC recently sent a review report containing sanction opinions (equivalent to a prosecutor's indictment) regarding suspicions of violating fair trade laws to Google on the 5th.

Google sells YouTube Premium, which allows ad-free viewing of YouTube videos, while offering access to YouTube Music for free. This has raised concerns that consumers using YouTube Premium are effectively compelled to purchase YouTube Music, infringing on their freedom of choice and potentially violating fair trade laws.

Current fair trade laws prohibit dominant market operators from unfairly obstructing the business activities of other operators. There have been concerns that Google could leverage its monopolistic position in the video market to enhance its influence and dominance in the music streaming market. According to data analysis service Mobile Index, YouTube Music ranked first in monthly active users (MAU) in December last year (6.79 million) and has maintained its position through May this year.

Following on-site investigations conducted at Google Korea's headquarters in February last year, the FTC reported findings that Google abused its dominant position in the streaming market through bundling practices, potentially restricting the activities of similar operators like Melon.

The FTC is proceeding with deliberations upon receiving Google's response to the review report. It is expected to convene a plenary session soon to decide on the extent and imposition of sanctions.

 

 

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