In a recent twist of events, Google has become the subject of critical scrutiny in one of the Department of Justice's (DOJ's) largest antitrust lawsuits. However, a vital subplot that may have comprehensible implications, not only in the tech industry but also in our daily digital footprints, involves the tech giant, Apple Inc.

The lawsuit is centered around an intricate web of business contracts and deals, but key amongst these is the significant exchange between Google and Apple. Details of the DOJ suit reveal that in an effort to secure its pole position in the search engine market, Google has been expending vast sums to secure strategic places for its search bar. One of its most significant moves is the mammoth payment made to Apple, a contentious issue that is gradually putting both tech giants under the DOJ's spotlight.

It is estimated that Google pays Apple between $8 billion to $12 billion annually. This significant exchange, which amounts to 15-20% of Apple's worldwide net income, is geared toward ensuring that Google's search engine remains the default on Apple's devices. A striking revelation that rings imminently loud is the degree to which Apple's financial structure has become reliant on Google's payments.

While this arrangement might appear mutually beneficial for Google and Apple, the DOJ argues that this deal prevents any form of healthy competition. Not only does it stifle other smaller players from gaining a fair chance at competition, but it also imposes Google's search engine and its accompanying personalized advertising, on billions of Apple's users who have little or no option to choose otherwise.

However, what these legal proceedings might yield raises additional concerns. If the DOJ emerges victorious, their persuasive power could compel Google to terminate its billion-dollar deal with Apple. This could potentially pull the plug on a significant revenue stream for Apple, who would then be forced to seek alternatives.

Furthermore, if Google is pulled from its default position, it could fuel a remarkable shift in the tech terrain. Possibilities range from Apple developing its search engine to consumers given the freedom to select their default search engine, hence deeply altering online advertising and search landscapes.

Finally, this lawsuit and its attendant scrutiny of the Google-Apple dynamic goes beyond these two tech giants' fate. Its outcome could potentially redefine antitrust laws and how they are applied to the tech industry, even as newer digital markets continue to evolve. It could also be a significant stepping stone in demanding accountability from tech conglomerates about how they influence consumer choice and online privacy.

The Google-Apple saga gives the world a unique glimpse into understanding the enormous economic and social influences of big tech and their intricacies. As we await further proceedings in this landmark DOJ lawsuit, there is no doubt that its ripple effects will be felt across the global tech industry and beyond.