The US government’s intention to separate the Chrome browser from Google has taken a significant legal turn. This week, Reuters reported that the US Department of Justice (DOJ) formally urged the court to compel Google to take action. Google has until the end of the year to propose solutions, with the court hearing scheduled for April next year.
DOJ Demands Fairer Competition
The DOJ demands that Google sell the Chrome browser and create conditions allowing competitors access to user data and search history. Prosecutors believe these measures will break Google’s monopoly in the search engine sector, fostering healthy competition. Reports indicate Google currently controls about 90% of the global search engine market.
Additionally, the DOJ alleges that Google has used illegal practices to block market entry for innovative competitors by dominating browser distribution channels through its app store. To counter this, the DOJ wants to bar Google from re-entering the browser market for five years. Should competition not improve, further measures, including forcing Google to sell the Android operating system, may follow.
Exclusive Agreements Under Scrutiny
The DOJ and a coalition of states also seek to end Google’s exclusive agreements with Apple and other device manufacturers. These agreements make Google the default search engine for many users, further consolidating its dominance. Prosecutors also aim to ban Google from acquiring companies in the search engine, artificial intelligence, or advertising technology sectors to prevent further monopolistic behavior, adds NIX Solutions.
Google is expected to present its proposals in December. The case is set to move forward in April next year, unless political changes, such as a potential rise to power by Donald Trump, alter its trajectory. This high-profile legal battle could redefine competition in the tech industry. We’ll keep you updated as the case unfolds.