The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly asking a judge to make Google sell its Chrome internet browser. This move comes as part of a larger case where Google has been accused of illegally dominating the search market. Bloomberg News broke the story on Monday, citing anonymous sources.
The DOJ isn’t stopping with Chrome. They also want changes to how Google handles artificial intelligence and its Android smartphone operating system. These proposals follow an earlier ruling from August, where a judge said Google was unlawfully monopolizing the search engine market.
Why Chrome Matters
Chrome is a major player in how people experience the internet. It’s used by about two-thirds of global web users and is tightly integrated with Google Search, which powers its ad business. When users log into Chrome, Google collects data that helps target ads more effectively. This browser is a huge revenue driver for the company.
Google, however, argues that its success is due to offering high-quality services. They point out that users have plenty of options, like Amazon and other search tools, and can switch to different browsers or search engines if they choose.
Google Fires Back
Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s vice president of regulatory affairs, called the DOJ’s demands a “radical agenda.” She warned these changes could hurt consumers rather than help them.
The Biden administration sees things differently. They’ve been cracking down on what they believe are unfair monopolies in Big Tech. If the DOJ gets its way, this would be one of their boldest moves yet.
The Trump Factor
There’s a twist, though. If Donald Trump wins the next presidential election, it could completely change the direction of this case. During his last campaign, Trump promised to take action against Google, accusing it of being biased against him. However, just a month later, he questioned whether breaking up the company was the right move.
What’s Next for Google?
A final decision on this case isn’t expected until August 2025, but the next big step is scheduled for April. That’s when Judge Amit Mehta will hear proposals for how to remedy the situation. Options being discussed include ending deals where Google pays companies like Apple to make its search engine the default or even breaking off parts of Google’s business, like Chrome or Android.
For now, Google plans to appeal any decision requiring it to sell Chrome. Meanwhile, the DOJ could decide later whether selling the browser is absolutely necessary, depending on how other proposed changes impact competition.
This case could have far-reaching effects on how Big Tech operates and might even change how we use the internet. Stay tuned for updates as the battle between the DOJ and Google unfolds.