The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking to compel Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, to divest its Chrome web browser. Representatives from the department have initiated legal proceedings, approaching the same judge who ruled in August on Google’s unlawful monopolization in the fields of artificial intelligence and mobile operating systems. Bloomberg reported this new lawsuit, citing informed sources.
It is understood that Google collects extensive data on user behavior, including website visits, advertisements viewed, and search queries. A significant portion of this data collection is facilitated through the Chrome browser, which reportedly commands two-thirds of the internet browser market, according to various analytics firms.
If Bloomberg’s information is accurate, this action represents one of the most assertive efforts by the U.S. government to address the monopolistic practices of major tech companies. Google intends to appeal following the final ruling from U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, anticipated by August 2025, with the trial scheduled for April.
Prosecutors are considering multiple scenarios for the outcome. One possibility involves Google ceasing its multi-billion dollar payments to Apple to maintain its status as the default search engine on Apple devices. A more severe alternative could require Google to divest parts of its operations, including the Chrome browser and the Android operating system.
The Department of Justice has chosen not to comment on the situation.
Source: Bloomberg
