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Apple and Google Sitting in a Tree
Google CEO Eric Schmidt stepped down from Apple's board late last month, but that hasn't put a halt to the Federal Trade Commission's investigation of whether the two companies are a little too cozy. Former Genentech chief Arthur Levinson remains on both companies' boards, which, if it reduces competition, isn't kosher under federal law.
Apple and Google, along with Genentech, Microsoft and Yahoo, among others, are also under Justice Department scrutiny for their hiring practices, according to reports that surfaced in June. Turns out the technology powerhouses might just have an agreement in place that prevents them from poaching talent from each other. Anyone smell collusion?
The accusations that Google and Apple have shared a "special" relationship go back a ways. Their not-quite-alliance is reportedly why Google's Android operating system doesn't utilize multi-touch gestures. Apple may hold patents in the area, but they certainly weren't enough to scare Palm away from using multi-touch for Pre.
But given the multiple areas -- from operating systems to browsers, to phones -- where the companies go head to head, a little distance was inevitable. "As Google enters more of Apple's core businesses, with Android and now Chrome OS, Eric's effectiveness as an Apple board member will be significantly diminished," said Steve Jobs.
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in In Compliance by 
