The Department of Justice has stated that Google must divest the Chrome web browser in order to restore competition in the online search market. Additionally, the DOJ has not ruled out the possibility of requiring Google to spin out Android as well.
The filing by the DOJ outlines a range of requirements that they are hoping the court will impose on Google. These requirements include restrictions on certain types of agreements and potentially breaking up the company. The DOJ’s latest proposal specifically focuses on spinning out Google’s Chrome browser, which is seen as a crucial access point for web searches.
While the government is not currently demanding that Google spin out its Android business, the option remains open. The potential of an Android spin-out serves as an incentive for Google to comply with other proposed remedies. If these remedies prove ineffective in restoring competition, a spin-out of Android may be mandated.
In addition to the potential spin-outs, the DOJ is seeking other remedies such as prohibiting Google from offering incentives to third parties to make its search engine the default option. They also want to prevent Google from prioritizing its search engine on its own platforms and require the company to provide access to its search index to rivals at a marginal cost.
Judge Mehta will be responsible for determining the best course of action to restore competition in the markets. A revised version of the proposals will be filed in early March, with a remedies trial scheduled for April.
The outcome of this case could be influenced by the new administration overseeing the DOJ. Despite the case originating during the Trump administration, it is clear that Google will still be held accountable.
In a separate antitrust case concerning Google’s advertising technology business, Google and the DOJ are set to deliver closing arguments in Alexandria, VA on Monday.
