The US Government submitted a final proposal on November 20, 2024, in the ongoing Google anti-monopoly case, which is being overseen by the US Justice Department. They are urging the district judge to compel Google to sell off Chrome and possibly Android to address the monopoly that Google holds in the search engine industry.
Background of the Case
This recent filing follows the district judge's ruling on August 5, 2024, which confirmed that Google has indeed operated as a monopoly in violation of the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890. This law is designed to prevent unfair monopolies and ensure that fair competition can thrive in the market.
Proposed Actions
Among the suggested measures, Google is required to divest the Chrome web browser, which currently reigns as the most widely used browser. Without Chrome steering users towards Google search by default, users could more easily select their preferred search engines. Furthermore, Google will not be permitted to set its other products to default to Google search, and a fund will be established to inform the public about this case and their options for search engines.
Google is also required to provide access to its search engine data to third parties for a minimal fee, while offering its user and advertising data for free for ten years. This aims to create a fairer environment in the search engine market. Advertisers on Google will receive more comprehensive insights into ad performance, costs, and enhanced control over keyword matching. Moreover, Google is prohibited from compensating other corporations for preferential treatment of its search engine, such as the substantial payments made to Apple to ensure Google search is the default on iPhones.
Future Implications
If these measures are deemed insufficient, the proposal even includes the possibility of forcing Google to sell off Android, a significant source of user data and Google searches due to its vast user network.
Federal anti-monopoly cases can span many years or even decades, often involving appeals, but the judge anticipates reaching a conclusion in 2025.
Case No. 1:20-cv-03010-APM filing on 11/20/2024 at Court Listener, Case No. 1:20-cv-03010-APM filing on 08/05/2024 at Thomson Reuters.
