Now DoJ approves Googorola (Google+Motorola)

It seems Google is on riot today. Today US DoJ also approved Google’s acquisition plans of Motorola. DoJ in its press release approved Google’s $12.5 billion buyout of Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc. Earlier today European Commission gave a green signal to Google on the same.

In its press release, Antitrust Division of US DoJ said that it successfully investigated and approved the acquisition of Motorola Mobility by Google. At the same time it approved the purchase of certain patents of Nortel Networks Inc. by the consortium formed by Microsoft, Apple and RIM. It also approved Apple’s acquisition of certain Novell Inc.’s patents.

The statement says: (I have highlighted the key points)

“After a thorough review of the proposed transactions, the Antitrust Division has determined that each acquisition is unlikely to substantially lessen competition and has closed these three investigations. In all of the transactions, the division conducted an in-depth analysis into the potential ability and incentives of the acquiring firms to use the patents they proposed acquiring to foreclose competitors. In particular, the division focused on standard essential patents (SEPs) that Motorola Mobility and Nortel had committed to license to industry participants through their participation in standard-setting organizations (SSOs). The division’s investigations focused on whether the acquiring firms could use these patents to raise rivals’ costs or foreclose competition.“

“The division concluded that the specific transactions at issue are not likely to significantly change existing market dynamics.”

You can read complete statement here at US DoJ web site.

This boosts Google’s Patent Portfolio exponentially and gives boost to its research arm. I wish Google will not misuse this sudden power and abuse them by eliminating competition.