The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is contemplating a request for a federal judge to mandate the sale of parts of Google's business to dismantle its online search monopoly, as detailed in a court filing from October 10, 2024. This move comes as part of a larger antitrust effort aimed at increasing competition in the tech industry.
The DOJ alleges that Google has maintained control over the most popular distribution channels, significantly hindering competition. The filing asserts, "For more than a decade, Google has controlled the most popular distribution channels, leaving rivals with little-to-no incentive to compete for users." The DOJ aims to implement structural changes to prevent Google from leveraging its products, such as the Chrome browser and Android operating system, to bolster its search business.
In response, Google’s vice president of regulatory affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, criticized the DOJ's approach, claiming it could stifle innovation and negatively affect consumers. She stated, "Government overreach in a fast-moving industry may have negative unintended consequences for American innovation and America's consumers."
U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta previously ruled that Google has been illegally exploiting its dominance, setting the stage for a trial on proposed remedies in spring 2025, with a decision expected by August 2025. Google has indicated plans to appeal the ruling once a remedy is finalized, a process that could extend for up to five years, according to legal experts.