Microsoft, Oracle Critical of Proposed EU Settlement With Google

AMSTERDAM (AP) -- A group that includes Microsoft and Oracle says Google's bid to settle its antitrust case with the European Union is insufficient.

The EU has been investigating Google over alleged abuse of its dominant position in the Internet search market since 2010.

FairSearch, a Microsoft-led group that complained about Google, confirmed Monday the EU has begun sending out requests for feedback on a settlement, but it cannot reveal details.

Europe's top antitrust official, Joaquin Almunia, said Oct. 1 that Google has offered to let competitors display their own logos on Google result pages.

FairSearch spokesman Thomas Vinje said Monday the settlement appears too similar to earlier requests its members rejected.

Google spokesman Al Verney said FairSearch members don't want a settlement, but want Google wrapped up "in a never-ending dispute."