The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly planning to ask a federal judge to compel Google to sell its Chrome web browser, according to Bloomberg News. This move follows an August ruling that found Google guilty of monopolising the search market. Additionally, the DOJ will propose remedies targeting Google’s dominance in artificial intelligence and its Android smartphone operating system.
Chrome plays a critical role in Google’s ecosystem, shaping how users interact with the internet and influencing the ads they see. With around two-thirds of the global browser market, the company’s first-party web browser not only directs users to its Search tool, but also collects data pivotal to its advertising business. This dominance has prompted regulators to scrutinise its impact on market competition.
In response, Google’s vice president of regulatory affairs Lee-Anne Mulholland criticised the DOJ’s proposed actions as a “radical agenda” that could harm consumers. The company has consistently argued that its products succeed because of their quality, not because of anti-competitive practices, and highlights the availability of alternative search engines and browsers.
The legal battle is expected to extend over the next few years. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta has scheduled a trial in April 2025 to consider potential remedies, with a final ruling likely by August 2025. Google has already signalled its intention to appeal any unfavourable decision.
The DOJ has outlined a range of possible solutions, from terminating exclusive agreements with companies like Apple, to selling off major assets such as Chrome and the Android operating system. These measures aim to encourage a more competitive market, reducing Google’s control over search and advertising ecosystems.
While Chrome’s sale is seen as a significant step, the government may hold off on enforcing this remedy depending on the effectiveness of other measures. Should these efforts fail to level the competitive playing field, forcing Google to sell its major assets could remain on the table, the Bloomberg report notes.
(Source: Bloomberg)
