European Union regulators have hit Google with a record $6.85 billion antitrust fine for using its Android mobile operating system to squeeze out rivals.
It represents just over two weeks of revenue for Google parent Alphabet and would scarcely dent its cash reserves of almost $140 billion. But it could add to a brewing trade war between Brussels and Washington.
Google said it would appeal the fine. "Android has created more choice for everyone, not less.
A vibrant ecosystem, rapid innovation and lower prices are hallmarks of robust competition," it said In a statement.
The penalty is nearly double the previous record of $3.7 billion which the United States tech company was ordered to pay last year over its online shopping search service.