Judge Lets Google Keep Chrome, Strengthening Apple’s Default-Search Revenue
The ruling, as interpreted by Jim Cramer, shifts power to Apple to monetize default placement across its massive iPhone base.
Overview
- A federal judge declined to force a Chrome divestiture, preserving Google’s ability to remain the default search on iPhones and to keep paying Apple.
- Jim Cramer argued the decision positions Apple to charge AI and search providers for prime placement instead of buying a turnkey AI like Perplexity.
- Apple’s scale—reported as more than 1 billion active iPhone users—was cited as the key source of its negotiating leverage.
- Apple shares closed up 3.81% on the day the decision and related commentary were reported.
- The case follows an August 2024 finding that Google held an illegal search monopoly, and CNBC disclosed an affiliated trust owns Apple shares.