US antitrust laws now pose a threat to Google and Apple, despite their role in building their technology empires.

The U.S. Justice Department’s recent antitrust attacks on tech giants Google and Apple are drawing comparisons to the landmark case against Microsoft in 1998, which ultimately led to a resurgence for the software giant. The parallels between these cases could offer insights into the potential outcomes if regulators are successful in reigning in the power of Google and Apple.

In the current trial against Google, federal lawyers have accused the company of creating an illegal monopoly with its search engine that stifles competition and innovation. The case against Apple, filed more recently, is still in its early stages and is expected to take years to resolve.

Regulators have pointed to Microsoft’s legal battles in the 1990s as a cautionary tale, highlighting the impact of antitrust actions on the tech industry. The Justice Department has drawn parallels between Google’s deals with Apple to promote its search engine on the iPhone and Microsoft’s tactics to block competition in the PC software market.

The Microsoft case ultimately led to concessions that paved the way for Apple’s success with the iPod and iPhone, demonstrating the potential for innovation to flourish when competition is fostered. Microsoft itself has seen a resurgence in recent years under new leadership, surpassing Apple as the world’s most valuable company and leading in artificial intelligence technology.

Antitrust experts argue that these cases are essential for maintaining competition in the market and preventing the rise of new monopolies. The history of antitrust actions against companies like IBM and AT&T has paved the way for new innovations and economic growth, highlighting the importance of regulatory intervention in the tech industry.

As the current cases against Google and Apple unfold, the tech industry is once again at a crossroads, with regulators seeking to balance innovation with competition. The outcomes of these cases could shape the future of the industry and determine the next generation of tech giants.