The Department of Justice (DOJ) has outlined proposed remedies following Google's monopolization of online search. These proposals aim to reshape the search landscape and address anti-competitive practices.
Key DOJ Proposals
- Divestiture of Chrome: The DOJ seeks the sale of Google Chrome to a buyer approved by the court.
- Restrictions on Android: While not demanding immediate divestiture, the DOJ wants the option to force the sale of Android if Google doesn't adhere to proposed conduct remedies. These remedies include preventing preferential treatment for Google's own search engine and apps on Android devices.
- Data Sharing and Transparency: Google would be required to share search and advertising data with third parties, enabling the development of competing search engines. Additionally, users would have the ability to opt out of having their data used for search indexing and AI training.
- Prohibition of Anti-Competitive Agreements: Google would be barred from entering agreements that discourage partners, such as Apple, from developing their own search engines.
Google has criticized the DOJ's proposals as "extreme" and "wildly overbroad," arguing they would compromise user security and stifle innovation. The company plans to submit its own proposals next month, followed by further filings from the DOJ in March. A court hearing is scheduled for April, with a final ruling expected before September 2025. For more on Google's legal battles, see Google's Black Friday 2024: Pixel Deals & More. You can also learn about Microsoft's efforts to enhance technology security.