Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, Eddy Cue, defended the company's decision to designate Google as the default search engine on Apple iPhones and Macs in a testimony during the ongoing antitrust trial.
According to the Associated Press, Cue emphasized Tuesday that in the realm of internet searches, no viable alternative matched the proficiency offered by Google.
Testifying in the antitrust case against Google, Cue noted that no alternative search engine was "as good" as Google in helping phone and computer users search the internet.
An Indian man surfs on his mobile phone using the Google search engine with its new logo, in Siliguri on September 2,2015. Google refreshed its logo to better suit mobile devices that are supplanting desktop computers when it comes to modern Internet lifestyles.
Antitrust Case Against Google
The US Department of Justice argued that by securing its search engine as the default option through financial agreements with tech giants like Apple and Verizon, Google has stifled competition and bolstered its dominance in the market.
In response, Google asserted that its preeminence stemmed from the superior quality of its search engine and maintained that users have the freedom to switch to alternative search engines with minimal effort.
This antitrust case marks a watershed event, paralleling the Justice Department's pursuit of Microsoft's control over internet browsers a quarter-century ago. The lawsuit, initiated in 2020, is unfolding in the US District Court in Washington DC, with a ruling anticipated early next year.
If Google is found culpable, subsequent proceedings will ascertain measures to curtail its market influence, potentially including the cessation of financial arrangements with Apple and other companies for preferential search engine status.
Color-Changing Apple iPhones
In related news, Apple has hinted at a potential technological innovation wherein iPhones could change color upon direct contact with skin. While not yet a realized feature, Apple suggests that the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max may exhibit this behavior, especially concerning materials with color-transferring properties.
This phenomenon primarily pertains to the "advanced texture matte" on the back glass or camera area. However, it's important to note that this color alteration is not an intentional feature but rather a potential consequence of direct contact with certain materials.
Apple advises users to exercise caution, particularly by using protective cases to mitigate any unintended discoloration. Apple's official guidance on iPhone maintenance acknowledges that the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are susceptible to color changes upon contact with various external elements like oils, denim, and other items in pockets or bags.
This effect is particularly noticeable on the advanced texture matte surfaces. It is worth mentioning that despite its non-glossy finish, the iPhone 15 series is not entirely resistant to fingerprints.
Apple assured users that any discoloration is temporary and can be rectified by promptly cleaning the affected areas. The recommended cleaning process involves a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth.
The company does not explicitly endorse its proprietary Apple Cloth for this purpose. Moreover, Apple advises against using cleaning products that may damage the device. The use of compressed air is also discouraged.
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