What market did Google allegedly abuse its dominance in?

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Google's Mobile Operating System Market Dominance Under Scrutiny in South Korea

South Korea's antitrust regulator has fined Google 207 billion won (approximately RM732.7 million) for allegedly abusing its dominant market position within the mobile operating system (OS) sector. The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) initiated an investigation into Google's practices concerning the customisation of its Android OS by local smartphone manufacturers.
Restriction on Customisation of Android OS

The KFTC's investigation focused on Google's requirement for smartphone makers to adhere to an "anti-fragmentation agreement (AFA)." This agreement stipulated that device manufacturers were prohibited from installing modified versions of the Android operating system, commonly referred to as "Android forks," on their products. Such restrictions were found to impede fair competition.
Cementing Market Dominance

The KFTC concluded that by enforcing the AFA, Google effectively prevented the development and adoption of alternative Android versions. This strategy played a significant role in solidifying Google's entrenched dominance within the global mobile OS market. The regulator views this action as a substantial impediment to market competition.
Significant Regulatory Action

This substantial fine represents one of the largest penalties ever imposed by the KFTC, underscoring the severity with which the South Korean regulator views Google's alleged anti-competitive practices. This action follows recent legislative efforts in South Korea aimed at regulating app store operators, including a bill passed earlier in September that restricts mandatory in-house payment systems for app developers.

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What market did Google allegedly abuse its dominance in?

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