In a groundbreaking case that could reshape the tech industry, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed drastic measures to curb Google’s dominance in online search. Prosecutors argued on Wednesday that Google must divest its Chrome browser, share search data with competitors, and even consider selling its Android operating system to dismantle its monopoly on search and digital advertising.
This landmark antitrust case, being heard in Washington, aims to address Google’s stronghold on the online search market, where it commands 90% of U.S. searches. The proposed remedies are expected to be enforced for up to a decade through a court-appointed committee overseeing compliance.
According to the DOJ’s court filing, Google’s monopolistic practices have not only stifled competition but have also locked out smaller rivals from critical distribution channels. The proposed remedies would put an end to the exclusive agreements in which Google pays billions of dollars to secure its search engine as the default option on devices from companies like Apple.
Google Responds: “Unprecedented Overreach”
In a statement, Alphabet’s Chief Legal Officer, Kent Walker, criticized the DOJ’s proposals, calling them “unprecedented government overreach” that could harm consumers, developers, and small businesses while jeopardizing the U.S.’s global economic and technological leadership.
Scheduled for trial in April, the case will likely gain further attention as it proceeds, with potential intervention from the new administration’s antitrust head.
DOJ Proposes Far-Reaching Remedies
The DOJ’s proposals also include prohibiting Google from making acquisitions in search-related fields, barring its re-entry into the browser market for five years, and potentially requiring it to divest Android if other remedies fail to promote competition. The DOJ has called for a technical committee with the power to access Google’s internal documents, interview employees, and audit software code to enforce compliance.
Chrome, a major part of Google’s advertising success, remains a focal point of the DOJ’s proposals. The browser allows Google to collect valuable user data, which it leverages for targeted advertising. By divesting Chrome and Android, prosecutors aim to prevent Google from favoring its own search engine and advertising products, a move they believe would open the door to fairer competition.
Industry Concerns and the Path Forward
The DOJ’s proposals have raised concerns across the tech industry. Publishers and websites would have the option to opt out of providing content for Google’s AI training, while search competitors like DuckDuckGo support the proposals, viewing them as a way to reduce competition barriers.
If enforced, Google would be required to share user search data with competitors at a nominal cost while also respecting user privacy—a point Google argues could compromise trust.
With Google set to present its proposals in December, the outcome of this case could redefine the structure of online search and digital advertising for years to come.
Source: Swifteradio.com
