DOJ Proposes Breakup of Google Monopoly

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed significant measures to dismantle Google's monopoly in online search, including the sale of its Chrome web browser and restrictions on its Android operating system. These proposals follow a court ruling that found Google engaged in anti-competitive practices, and aim to restore competition by preventing Google from making its search engine the default on many devices, such as those from Apple and Samsung. The DOJ argues that these changes are necessary to open the market for rival search engines, while Google has dismissed the proposals as overly radical and harmful to consumers. The DOJ's filing marks a notable shift in regulatory strategy, being the first major move against a tech giant since attempts to break up Microsoft. The case will be heard in April, with the potential for appeals to prolong the legal battle. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for how Google operates and how consumers engage with its services.