New Delhi: In a move that could reshape the digital landscape, the US Department of Justice (DoJ) has proposed a series of radical remedies to dismantle Google’s perceived internet search monopoly. These measures include forcing the tech giant to sell its popular Chrome browser and potentially divesting itself of the Android mobile operating system.
This action follows an August court ruling that declared Google’s market practices illegal. The DoJ, arguing that Google’s dominance stifles competition, has submitted these proposals to a Washington federal court.
“The playing field is not level,” the DoJ stated, emphasizing the need for drastic measures to ensure fair competition in the digital market. Google currently controls approximately 90% of internet searches in the United States.
The proposed remedies aim to loosen Google’s grip on the market. In addition to the sale of Chrome, the DoJ seeks to prohibit Google from paying for default search engine status on third-party products, like Apple devices. A five-year ban on re-entering the browser market is also on the table. Furthermore, the DoJ is pushing for Google to share its search index with competitors and allow content creators to opt out of having their data used for AI model training.
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Google has vehemently opposed these proposals. Kent Walker, Alphabet’s Chief Legal Officer, condemned the measures as “unprecedented government overreach” that could harm American consumers and hinder technological advancement.
The final decision rests with Judge Amit Mehta, who will preside over a hearing in April to determine which remedies will be implemented. Google is expected to present its own counter-proposals during the proceedings.
This case has significant implications for the global tech industry, signaling a potential shift towards stricter antitrust regulation in the digital age. The outcome could redefine the relationship between tech giants and regulatory bodies, impacting how we access and interact with information online.
