The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed a bold move in its antitrust battle with Google by suggesting the separation of Google’s Chrome browser and Android operating system. This is part of a larger effort to address what the DOJ calls Google’s “illegal monopoly” in online search and advertising.
According to court filings, the DOJ is exploring various remedies that would prevent Google from using products like Chrome, Play, and Android to unfairly promote its own search-related features over competitors. The department believes that Google’s control of the Chrome browser limits competition by favoring its own search engine as the default option.
In addition to addressing this issue, the DOJ is looking into ways to limit Google’s use of contracts and other tactics that stifle competition in distribution channels and search-related products. This includes potentially restricting default agreements and revenue-sharing arrangements related to search services.
This proposal follows a ruling from Judge Amit Mehta in August 2024, which found Google guilty of violating antitrust laws by maintaining monopolies in general search services and advertising markets. The DOJ’s latest move signals a continued effort to hold Google accountable for its alleged anti-competitive practices.
2024-10-17 09:15:01
Article from www.computerworld.com