The U.S. Department of Justice is planning to ask a federal judge to force Google’s parent company, Alphabet, to get rid of and sell its Chrome internet browser, Bloomberg News said Monday. This is in the wake of an earlier ruling in August in which the court ruled Google had unlawfully monopolized the search market.
DOJ sought an injunction reportedly covering more than Chrome. Prosecutors have moved to implement “remedies” that address Google’s artificial intelligence operations and Android smartphone platform. The steps represent one of the boldest efforts by the Biden administration toward addressing allegedly anticompetitive practices in Big Tech.
Authorities plan to sell Google Chrome internet browser despite good market share
Google’s Chrome browser, which holds about two-thirds of the global market, plays a key role in how users access the internet and interact with advertisements. Google has solidified its dominance by linking Chrome to its search engine and leveraging data for its ad business. Critics argue this stifles competition and limits consumer choice.
Google, speaking through its Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, described the DOJ’s proposals as a “radical agenda” that would harm consumers. It says its search engine excels on the grounds of quality and there are always other options for users, at least according to Amazon. What the antitrust battle will shape for years is the tech landscape.
A remedy trial is scheduled for April 2025, and U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta is likely to issue a final verdict by August. Prosecutors have recommended remedies from the ending of exclusivity contracts with Apple to force Google as its default search engine to breaking business units in Chrome or Android.
Are politics impacting Google’s business?
The case also carries political implications. Former President Donald Trump, who is a prospective contender in the 2024 presidential race, has issued mixed statements on regulating Google. He had pledged to take action against perceived bias but later questioned the idea of breaking up the tech giant.
The DOJ’s approach could change, with a Chrome sale remaining an available step if initial remedies do not increase market competition. Google said it plans to appeal any ruling that requires the measures.