DOJ Revises Antitrust Proposal Against Google, Retains Key Remedies

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is maintaining its demand for structural changes to dismantle Google's search monopoly, including a divestiture of its Chrome browser and ending payments to Apple for preferential search-engine placement. The DOJ's revised proposals, which will be defended in court, also emphasize the need for Google to open its search index to competitors and impose stricter oversight on its AI investments. This case, ongoing since 2020, highlights Google's use of exclusionary agreements and other practices to maintain its market dominance. Critics argue that Google’s control over AI investments further solidifies its monopoly, while Google defends its practices as beneficial to consumers. The DOJ's approach signals a commitment to challenging Big Tech's dominance, despite changes in administration. Google's responses indicate a belief that the DOJ's actions could harm competition and innovation.