Google may be required to divest its Chrome browser amid allegations of internet search monopoly | Updates on Science, Climate, and Technology
US prosecutors have put forward a 23-page document arguing that Google should sell its Chrome browser to promote competition in the online search market.
They also suggest implementing restrictions to prevent Google’s Android smartphone software from showing preference to its own search engine.
If these regulations are enforced, Google could face 10 years of strict regulation.
Currently, Google dominates 90% of the online search market and 95% on smartphones.
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Court documents further detail the plan to break up Google’s monopoly, which the company has called radical and detrimental to the US economy and competitiveness in AI.
Google plans to appeal against the proposals.
The US Department of Justice (DoJ) and a group of states are urging US District Judge Amit Mehta to end exclusive agreements where Google pays substantial amounts to Apple and other device manufacturers to have its search engine as the default option on their devices.
In December, Google will have the opportunity to present its own proposals, with a trial scheduled for April. However, the involvement of President-elect Donald Trump and the DoJ’s incoming antitrust head could impact the proceedings.
