We’re closely monitoring the ongoing legal battle between the Department of Justice and Google, with a judge recently ruling that Google is a monopolist in how it distributes Google Search. The DOJ initially proposed recommendations, including potentially separating Chrome (and Android) from Google, and they have now refined and submitted these proposals to the court.
In their latest filing, the Department of Justice is seeking for a judge to consider requiring Google to sell off or spin out Chrome, as they believe it is a crucial access point for internet searches. There is also the possibility that they could ask Google to relinquish control of Android, although this has not been explicitly demanded yet.
Google has swiftly responded to these proposals, criticizing the DOJ for advocating a “radical interventionist agenda” that could damage America’s technological leadership. They argue that these recommendations could negatively impact various Google products beyond just Search, hinder their investment in AI, and result in government interference in Search operations.
Final decisions on this matter are still months away, with Google set to submit their own proposals next month. The judge will hear both sides’ cases next year before determining the appropriate course of action.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the internet and smartphones, potentially changing the landscape by April 2025.
(Source: The Verge | Google)