Breaking news

AI and Antitrust: Could Google’s Search Monopoly Face a New Challenge?

The antitrust trial against Alphabet’s Google has commenced, highlighting significant concerns about its potential to leverage two-faced intelligence to maintain its stronghold over online search. Initiated by the U.S. Department of Justice, the case could redefine how we interact with the internet, reminiscent of past landmark judgments against corporate giants like AT&T and Standard Oil.

David Dahlquist, representing the DOJ, expressed the necessity for measures to prevent AI from further entrenching Google’s dominance.

Key witnesses from Perplexity AI and OpenAI are set to present firsthand accounts of the challenges posed by Google’s overwhelming market presence. Meanwhile, Google’s defense underscores that imposing remedies may stifle innovation at a critical technological crossroads.

Beyond the immediate issues of search engines, the trial also raises broader questions about future technological advancements and market fairness as digital ecosystems evolve. While the DOJ seeks to dismantle exclusive agreements where Google pays billions for default status on various devices, Google contends that these moves might inadvertently increase technical costs while deterring entrepreneurial growth in allied domains.

In essence, both sides align on a pivotal question: How to balance innovation with fair competition in an AI-driven future?

Cyprus Launches Survey To Shape New Cybersecurity Startup Funding Programme

The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) has informed businesses about a new survey launched by the Digital Security Authority (DSA) to assess the needs of cybersecurity startups ahead of a planned funding programme.

Industry Consultation Begins Before Funding Rollout

Launched by the DSA in its capacity as Cyprus’ National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCC-CY), the survey aims to gather information on the challenges, priorities and development needs of startups operating in the cybersecurity sector.

Its findings will help shape a future grant scheme while providing authorities with a clearer understanding of the needs of companies active in the industry.

Grant Scheme Tied To European Cybersecurity Objectives

Implementation of the support programme will take place through the European N4CY2 project and is aligned with Regulation (EU) 2021/887, which focuses on strengthening cybersecurity capabilities, resilience and innovation across the European Union.

According to the DSA, feedback collected through the survey will contribute to the development of funding measures aimed at supporting the growth of cybersecurity startups.

Why Startup Participation Matters

Keve encouraged startups and other stakeholders to participate in the consultation process, noting that their input can help ensure future support measures reflect the realities and challenges faced by the sector.

Areas covered by the questionnaire include business development, innovation, operational challenges and future growth opportunities within the cybersecurity ecosystem.

Through direct feedback from market participants, the DSA aims to design a funding programme that is better aligned with the needs of emerging cybersecurity companies.

Survey Open Until June 26

Eligible businesses are being encouraged to complete the questionnaire and contribute to the consultation process before the scheme is launched. Responses will be accepted until June 26, 2026.

The chamber said the information submitted will be used exclusively for the design of the grant scheme and will be handled under strict confidentiality. Businesses interested in participating can access the questionnaire here.

Aretilaw firm
eCredo
Uol
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter