Google's Clout Grows as Tech Initiatives Take Shape - WSJ.com

Congress is expected to look into whether it should set rules to protect consumers' Internet privacy, a touchy issue for the search giant, which collects vast amounts of user data. The company is still smarting over the Justice Department's decision in November to block it from pairing up with rival Yahoo Inc. on some search advertising on the grounds that Google already dominates the search market.

Last year, Google helped defeat broadcasters in a fight over whether unlicensed wireless gadgets can soon begin using vacant TV airwaves. The company also led a fight against the cellular industry over whether new wireless networks must be open to all phones and gadgets. In return, AT&T Inc., which has sparred with Google over a number of issues, is now funding a think tank called the Future of Privacy Forum that is focusing on improving Internet privacy and raising awareness of the issue in Washington. The phone giant and other broadband providers continue to spar with Google over the issue of net-neutrality rules, which would bar Internet providers from slowing or blocking some Internet traffic.

Google's Clout Grows as Tech Initiatives Take Shape - WSJ.com