In a bold move, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) late Wednesday called for the breakup of Google, demanding the tech giant sell its widely used Chrome browser and proposing severe restrictions on its business practices. This development marks one of the most aggressive antitrust actions against a tech company in U.S. history.
Sweeping Demands
The DOJ’s court filing urged measures to prevent Google from leveraging its dominance in mobile and search markets. Key proposals include:
- Selling Chrome to limit its control over the browser market.
- Banning agreements that make Google the default search engine on devices.
- Potentially selling Android, should other remedies fail to curb Google’s competitive advantage.
Google’s contracts with smartphone manufacturers, particularly Apple, were a focal point of the DOJ’s concerns. These deals, which involve substantial payments to secure Google Search as the default option, were deemed instrumental in cementing its monopoly.
Profound Implications
The DOJ’s demands follow Judge Amit Mehta’s 2023 ruling that Google held a monopoly in the U.S. search market. According to court findings, Google controlled 90% of online searches in 2020, rising to 95% on mobile devices. Judge Mehta’s decision underscored how Google’s arrangements provided unparalleled access to user data, enabling it to dominate the digital ecosystem through products like Chrome, Maps, and Android.
Calling for Google’s breakup signals a dramatic shift in regulatory attitudes. The U.S. government has largely avoided such measures since the failed attempt to dismantle Microsoft in the early 2000s.
Mixed Reactions
Google dismissed the proposals as “radical,” with critics calling the DOJ’s remedies excessive. Adam Kovacevich, CEO of the Chamber of Progress, labeled the demands “fantastical” and argued for more targeted solutions.
Impact of Political Changes
The case’s trajectory could hinge on the incoming Trump administration, set to take office in January. President-elect Trump’s views on Big Tech remain inconsistent—he has criticized Google for alleged bias against conservatives but suggested breaking up the company might be too extreme.
The DOJ’s antitrust division is expected to undergo leadership changes under Trump, potentially altering the case’s direction. The administration could pursue the breakup, negotiate a settlement, or abandon the case entirely.
What’s Next?
Google is expected to present its counterarguments next month, with a pivotal hearing scheduled for April before Judge Mehta. Any ruling is likely to be appealed, potentially dragging the case to the U.S. Supreme Court and extending the timeline by years.
With five antitrust cases currently pending against major tech firms—including Amazon, Meta, and Apple—the Biden administration’s tough stance on Big Tech could face significant tests under Trump’s leadership.
The ultimate resolution could reshape the technology industry and redefine government oversight of monopolistic behavior.
