1636 GMT - Alphabet says its contracts with smartphone manufacturers--which ensure some Google products such as its Chrome browser are pre-installed on devices using the company's Android operating system--keep those devices safe and are good for competition, according to a regulatory filing the U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority published on Wednesday. The CMA said in November that Google's design choices related to its Chrome browser on smartphones "make it more difficult for consumers to switch to regularly using another browser app." The company responded in a hearing that its deals "ensure a high-quality, consistent out-of-the box experience" controlled by device makers, the filing says. The company also says its agreements incentivise smartphone makers to ship security updates and upgrades to the Android operating system. (edith.hancock@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
February 19, 2025 11:40 ET (16:40 GMT)
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