The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly preparing to ask a judge to force Google’s parent company, Alphabet, to sell its Chrome browser, following a ruling that the company illegally monopolized the search market.
According to Bloomberg, the DOJ will request that the judge, who ruled in August that Google maintained an illegal monopoly, impose additional remedies, including changes related to artificial intelligence and its Android operating system.
The DOJ declined to comment on the matter, but Google responded strongly, with Lee-Anne Mulholland, Vice President of Google Regulatory Affairs, calling the move a “radical agenda” that extends beyond the legal scope of the case and would harm consumers. Google argues that its dominance in the search market is a result of offering superior quality services and that users have the freedom to choose alternative search engines.
The case stems from the DOJ’s long-standing investigation into Google’s market practices, including its exclusive agreements with companies like Apple, where Google pays billions annually to secure its search engine as the default on smartphones and other devices. One potential remedy that prosecutors have suggested is requiring Google to divest its Chrome browser or Android operating system, or to restrict its ability to bundle these services with its search engine.
As the legal process continues, Google’s next step will likely be an appeal once US District Judge Amit Mehta delivers his final ruling, which is not expected until at least August 2025.
The DOJ’s request to force Google to sell its Chrome browser would mark one of the most aggressive actions by the Biden administration in its efforts to curb monopolistic practices within Big Tech. The department has already filed multiple antitrust lawsuits against major tech companies, including Google, Apple, and Amazon, in a bid to reshape market dynamics and reduce perceived market abuses.
The future of the case could be influenced by the political landscape, particularly with the prospect of a potential re-election of former President Donald Trump. Trump has previously expressed interest in prosecuting Google for alleged bias against him and other political figures, though his stance on breaking up the company has fluctuated over time.
The ongoing antitrust proceedings reflect a broader push by the Biden administration to rein in Big Tech companies. At the same time, concerns loom about the future direction of antitrust enforcement, particularly if a change in administration leads to a shift in priorities. The DOJ’s current actions come as top officials, such as Lina Khan at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Jonathan Kanter at the DOJ, prepare to leave office, potentially leaving a legacy of aggressive antitrust actions.
New York Post and the Wall Street Journal contributed to this report.
