DOJ Calls Perplexity AI Executive to Testify in Google Antitrust Battle
In a significant development in the ongoing Google antitrust case, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has requested testimony from Dmitry Shevelenko, Chief Business Officer of AI search provider Perplexity. This move comes after a federal court ruled in August 2024 that Google maintains an illegal monopoly in search.
Why Perplexity’s Testimony Matters
The DOJ aims to question Shevelenko about several critical aspects of the search market:
- Generative AI’s impact on search access points (like browsers and default search settings)
- Market distribution dynamics and barriers to entry
- Data sharing practices in the AI search sector
Perplexity, recently valued at $9 billion, represents a new generation of AI-powered search alternatives challenging Google’s dominance. The company’s AI search technology provides direct answers to complex queries, positioning it as a potential compe***** to traditional search engines.
The Stakes for Google
Google faces potential structural remedies, including:
- Possible divestiture of Chrome browser
- Restrictions on default search agreements
The DOJ may use Perplexity’s testimony to demonstrate how Google’s practices allegedly stifle competition in the evolving search landscape, particularly in AI-driven search technologies.
Legal Tug-of-War Over Evidence
Both sides are seeking information from Perplexity:
- Google subpoenaed Perplexity in October 2024 for documents to support its argument about existing competition
- As of December 11, Perplexity had not yet provided documents, prompting Google to file a motion about the delay
- Perplexity states it has agreed to fulfill 12 of 14 document requests but cites the burden of extensive document collection
The Bigger Picture
This case represents a pivotal moment in:
- Antitrust enforcement in the tech sector
- The regulation of AI-powered search technologies
- The future of search market competition
The outcome could reshape how search engines operate and compete in an increasingly AI-driven digital landscape.
Note: Neither Perplexity nor Google immediately responded to requests for comment about the testimony request.
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