Tech giant Google is deeply embroiled in an antitrust storm as the US Department of Justice antitrust officials have reportedly decided to request a judge to force Google to sell its own Chrome browser. This will be one of the most severe actions taken against a global tech giant in history.
In August of this year, a US judge ruled that Google violated antitrust laws in the internet search market. According to Bloomberg, sources revealed that the US Department of Justice will request a judge to force Google to sell its own Chrome browser and also ask the judge to require Google to take measures related to AI and the Android smartphone operating system.
Officials from participating states and the Department of Justice in this case also plan to propose the implementation of data licensing requirements to the judge this Wednesday.
If the judge accepts these proposals, it may reshape the internet search market and the thriving AI industry. This case was initiated during the first term of the Trump administration and has continued under the Biden administration. It is the most severe action taken against tech companies since the failed attempt to split up Microsoft more than 20 years ago.
Having the globally popular web browser Chrome is crucial to Google’s advertising business, as it allows Google to track the activities of logged-in users and use this data for more effective targeted advertising, which is its main source of revenue. Google has also been using Chrome to steer users towards its AI product Gemini.
Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s Vice President of Public Policy, stated that the Department of Justice is “advancing an agenda beyond the scope of this case” and that government intervention in this manner will harm consumers, developers, and America’s technological leadership.
Chrome may be forced to be sold
Sources indicate that antitrust officials hope the judge will order Google to sell Chrome because Chrome is an important gateway for many people using Google’s search engine. However, the government may choose to postpone the decision on whether Chrome needs to be sold if other remedies are sufficient to promote market competition. According to StatCounter, Chrome has a market share of approximately 61% in the US market.
It is reported that government lawyers have met with dozens of companies in the past three months to prepare recommendations. Some states are still considering adding some proposals, and some details may change. Antitrust officials have also abandoned more stringent options, such as forcing Google to sell Android.
Google plans to appeal
After the judge’s ruling in August that Google violated antitrust laws in the internet search market, Google has repeatedly stated its plans to appeal. The judge is scheduled to hold a two-week hearing in April next year to discuss the changes Google must make to rectify its illegal behavior. The final ruling is planned to be made before August 2025, which means Google still has enough time to coordinate remedial measures.
Sources indicate that if the forced separation of Chrome is implemented, interested buyers, with the ability, possibility, and willingness, like Amazon, will need to be found. However, Amazon is also facing antitrust scrutiny, which may hinder such a large-scale transaction.
