The Google logo stands proudly in front of the company’s headquarters in Mountain View, California. The U.S. Department of Justice has put forth a series of antitrust recommendations for Google, proposing that the company divest its Chrome browser and Android operating system. However, Google has strongly opposed these suggestions as being too extreme.
In a 32-page document submitted to court, the DOJ outlined potential remedies for the ongoing antitrust lawsuit against Google. These remedies aim to limit or end Google’s use of contracts and other tools to control distribution channels and search-related products.
The DOJ is considering various options such as limiting default agreements and revenue-sharing arrangements related to search products. They are also evaluating behavioral and structural remedies that would prevent Google from favoring its own products over competitors.
A federal judge recently ruled that Google holds an illegal monopoly in the search engine market, prompting these proposed remedies by the Justice Department. The proposals also seek to prevent Google’s dominance from extending into emerging sectors like artificial intelligence.
Google Vice President Lee-Anne Mulholland criticized these proposals, stating they would have negative consequences for consumers and businesses alike. Despite this opposition, smaller competitors like Yelp have welcomed the DOJ’s recommendations.
Legal experts suggest that instead of a breakup, the court may require Google to adjust certain exclusive agreements it has with other companies. As this process unfolds in court over time, it is likely that there will be appeals from both sides before any final decisions are made.
Source: www.ibtimes.com