DOJ Seeks Google Chrome Breakup Amid Antitrust Hearing

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking remedies for Google's illegal monopoly in search, proposing that the tech giant be forced to divest its Chrome browser and open the Android operating system to greater consumer choice. Prosecutors argue these measures are necessary to restore competition and prevent Google from extending its dominance into emerging areas like artificial intelligence. Google, however, contends that such actions are extreme, warning they would stifle innovation, harm U.S. technological leadership, and pose national security risks, especially amid global competition. The remedies phase follows an August 2023 court ruling that Google violated antitrust law by securing default status on browsers and devices through exclusive deals. While some industry figures, such as Perplexity's CEO, support opening Android to competition, they stop short of endorsing a full breakup of Google, emphasizing the complexity and potential downsides of splitting Chrome. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the future of the internet and technology competition in the U.S.