The Justice Department intensifies its antitrust battle against Google, demanding divestiture of its Chrome browser and the end of exclusive search engine deals to foster consumer choice.
In a bold move on Friday, the U.S. Justice Department reaffirmed its position that tech giant Google must sell its popular Chrome web browser, signaling a continued firm stance against monopolistic practices by the Trump administration, which has picked up momentum from actions initiated under President Biden.
According to documents submitted to Judge Amit P. Mehta, the Department of Justice (DOJ) insisted that Google divest Chrome and eliminate agreements that have solidified its dominance in the online search sector. These proposals come in the wake of Judge Mehta’s landmark August 2024 decision, declaring that Google engaged in unlawful practices by securing exclusive agreements to ensure its search engine remained the default choice across browsers and mobile devices.
“Google’s monopolistic tactics have distorted market competition, systematically eliminating rivals and stifling innovation,” the DOJ stated in its recent filing. It further described Google as a “dominant economic force imposing constraints on consumer freedom and limiting alternative options.”
Judge Mehta previously cited evidence showing that approximately 70% of search queries within the U.S. pass through platforms where Google enjoys exclusive default status. It was highlighted during the trial that in 2021 alone, Google spent approximately $26.3 billion to maintain these preferential arrangements with major companies, including Apple and Mozilla.
The DOJ now demands that Google halt these payments and allow fair competition among search engines. Additionally, the department advocates for a unique measure requiring Google to share its search results and related data with smaller competitors for ten years, a move aimed at leveling the playing field.
Notably, the DOJ has revised its earlier stance, no longer calling for the divestiture of Google’s AI assets. Instead, the new directive mandates that Google notify state and federal authorities before any significant investments in artificial intelligence, reflecting cautious oversight rather than outright prohibition.
Google, on its part, submitted a counter-proposal maintaining its argument that only minimal changes are necessary. It suggested continuing payments for prime placement but modifying contractual restrictions to allow competitors fairer access.
“The Justice Department’s proposals would negatively impact American consumers, our economic stability, and national security,” stated Google spokesperson Peter Schottenfels. Kent Walker, Google’s Chief Legal Officer, had previously labeled the DOJ’s demands “radically interventionist,” arguing that such drastic measures could undermine consumer privacy and innovation.
The ongoing legal battle is set to continue, with Judge Mehta scheduling hearings on both proposals in April. Google has already indicated plans to appeal the court’s ruling, potentially prolonging the dispute for several years.
