The Japan Fair Trade Commission (FTC) sent a cease-and-desist letter to Google LLC on Tuesday, ordering it to halt practices that violate Japanese antitrust laws. The agency found that Google reached deals with at least six smartphone manufacturers to preinstall its search service and Chrome internet browser on their products.
The FTC said at least 80% of Android devices sold in Japan were made by companies that signed contracts with Google. The tech giant also reached deals with four manufacturers and one telecommunications company to share ad revenue if they agree not to offer other search services on their devices.
