Google pays Samsung heavily to Pre-install Gemini App
Google has reportedly been paying Samsung a significant amount of money every month to have its AI app, Gemini, pre-installed on Galaxy smartphones. This revelation emerged during an ongoing antitrust case against Google, which is under scrutiny for monopolistic practices. Notably, Peter Fitzgerald, Google’s Vice President of platforms and device partnerships, confirmed in federal court that these payments began in January. He also revealed that the agreement spans at least two years.
Although specific figures remain undisclosed, the arrangement includes both fixed monthly payments and a share of advertising revenue generated from Gemini. According to Department of Justice (DOJ) attorney David Dahlquist, the amount constitutes an “enormous sum of money.” This adds another layer to the broader claims that Google has used financial incentives to maintain dominance in the tech ecosystem.
Antitrust Pressure Mounts
The current antitrust case stems from allegations that Google has been exploiting its dominance in the search engine market. Earlier rulings concluded that paying companies like Apple and Samsung to set Google as the default search option violates fair competition laws. Judge Amit Mehta, who is presiding over the case, is now weighing potential remedies for Google’s behaviour.
As more testimony comes to light, it appears this strategy is not new. In a separate legal battle involving Epic Games, it was revealed that Google paid Samsung approximately $8 billion between 2020 and 2023. The goal? To ensure Google Search, the Play Store, and Google Assistant remained the default options on Samsung devices. Following this disclosure, a federal judge in California ordered Google to ease restrictions that blocked competing marketplaces and billing systems—a ruling the tech giant is actively appealing.
What Lies Ahead?
Although Google’s payments to Samsung could bolster Gemini’s visibility, the strategy is drawing criticism. Many question whether such vast sums should instead benefit users, especially when these pre-installed apps are often viewed as bloatware. As the case proceeds, regulators may push for deeper reforms that go beyond fines, potentially reshaping how Google engages with partners and users alike.
