The US Department of Justice (DoJ) has proposed a sweeping breakup of Google, aiming to curb its dominance in the search engine market. A 23-page filing by the Justice Department, which is part of the US government, late on Wednesday (November 20) called for the sale of Google’s Chrome web browser and restrictions on Android to prevent favoritism towards Google Search. The proposed actions stem from a recent court ruling that labeled Google a monopolist. The Justice Department argues that a Chrome sale would “permanently stop Google’s control of this critical search access point” and allow competitors to better compete.
A sale of Chrome “will permanently stop Google’s control of this critical search access point and allow rival search engines the ability to access the browser that for many users is a gateway to the internet,” Justice Department lawyers reportedly argued in their filing.
While not explicitly demanding the sale of Android, the filing suggests that the operating system could be subject to divestiture if Google continues anti-competitive practices. The proposed remedies extend beyond breaking up Google’s core businesses. The Justice Department also seeks to:
* Ban Apple and other exclusive search deals: Prevent Google from paying billions to maintain its default search position on devices like iPhones.
* Restrict prioritism: Prohibit Google from prioritizing its own services like YouTube and Gemini in search results.
* License search index data: Allow competitors to access Google’s vast search data to improve their own offerings.
* Ask to share more: Require Google to provide more information about its advertising practices.
* Protect content from AI training: Ensure websites can shield their content from Google’s AI training techniques.
If implemented, these measures could significantly impact Google’s business, which is expected to generate over $300 billion in revenue this year. The Justice Department’s proposal has sparked debate about the extent to which regulators should intervene in the tech industry. Some argue that the remedies are too severe, while others believe they are necessary to restore competition.
Implementation timeline
The Justice Department decision-makers who will inherit the case after President-elect Donald Trump takes office next year might not be as strident. The Washington, D.C. court hearings on Google’s punishment are scheduled to begin in April and judge Mehta is likely to issue his final decision before Labor Day (May 1).
The final decision rests with US District Judge Amit Mehta, who will hear arguments on the proposed remedies in April. Google has already signaled its intent to appeal any unfavorable ruling.
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