The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly planning to ask a judge to force Alphabet’s Google to sell its Chrome internet browser. This move comes amid ongoing antitrust proceedings where the DOJ has accused Google of illegally monopolizing the search market.
According to sources cited by Bloomberg News, the DOJ will also seek measures related to artificial intelligence and Google’s Android smartphone operating system. These actions represent one of the most aggressive attempts by the current administration to rein in what it perceives as Big Tech monopolies.
Google’s Chrome browser dominates the global market, controlling about two-thirds of browser usage worldwide. It plays a significant role in how people access the internet and view advertisements, often utilizing Google Search and collecting data beneficial to Google’s advertising business.
In response, Google stated that the DOJ is pushing a radical agenda that extends beyond the legal issues of the case and could harm consumers. The company maintains that its search engine and browser have earned their popularity due to quality and that users have the freedom to choose other options.
U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta is expected to make a final ruling by August 2025, with a trial on remedy proposals scheduled for April. The DOJ’s proposed remedies range from ending exclusive agreements where Google pays to remain the default search engine on devices to potentially divesting parts of its business like Chrome and the Android operating system.
These developments could lead to significant changes in the tech industry, potentially reshaping how users interact with internet services and how competition functions in the digital marketplace.
Reference(s):
DOJ to ask judge to force Google to sell off Chrome, Bloomberg reports
cgtn.com
