Google has strongly criticized a reported proposal by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to force the sale of Chrome, its market-leading web browser. This remedy, part of an antitrust case, aims to address Google’s dominance in online search following an August ruling that declared the company a monopoly.
Judge Amit Mehta, who presides over the case, identified Google’s default search engine agreements as critical to maintaining its near-90% global search market share. According to Mehta, competitors face significant barriers, including billions in revenue-sharing costs, to challenge Google’s position. The DOJ is expected to submit its final proposals soon, potentially recommending a breakup of Google’s businesses, including Chrome and Android.
Google executive Lee-Anne Mulholland criticized the proposal, stating it represents a “radical agenda” that would harm consumers, developers, and technological innovation. Google argues that splitting off parts of its ecosystem, such as Chrome or Android, would raise device costs, compromise security, and disrupt its business model. Chrome, which holds a 64.61% global browser market share, is closely integrated with Google Search and other services.
This case could lead to one of the most significant changes in the tech industry’s structure. The outcome will hinge on whether the court finds the proposed remedies, including the potential breakup of Chrome and Android, necessary to restore competition in the digital marketplace.
