The big deal between Google and Apple, worth $20 billion a year for search rights, was found to break competition laws last summer. Although Apple isn’t on trial, what happens in this case could change things a lot for them. So, Apple has asked to slow down the court process.
Apple Wants a Say in the Case
Just a few days ago, Apple tried to get its witnesses into Google’s trial but was turned down. Apple isn’t accused of doing anything wrong, but they argued that Google can’t look out for Apple’s interests anymore because Google is busy protecting itself from claims that could break up its business.
Since they couldn’t bring their witnesses, Apple has now asked for a pause in the court case. They say they need this to keep their rights safe while they appeal the decision.
Their latest court document explains:
“If we don’t pause this case, Apple could be hurt in ways we can’t fix later. We might lose our chance to be part of deciding what happens next, like at the trial itself, while they decide on our rights. This gets even worse because of what the other side said in our last meeting.”
The document also mentions that courts often allow such delays when someone wants to appeal a decision about joining a case, and Apple hopes this court will agree too.
If Apple can’t join in the way they want, they have a backup plan:
“At the very least, the court should let Apple see all the case documents as someone not officially in the case until the higher court decides.”
No matter what, Apple thinks they need to be involved in the court process to some extent to avoid serious damage to their interests.
