‘Sell Chrome Browser…’ US DOJ To Push Google to Divest in Chrome: Report

DOJ On Google Chrome: The US Department of Justice (DOJ) plans to request a court order forcing Alphabet’s Google to divest its Chrome web browser, according to a Bloomberg report cited by Reuters.  

The move comes after a federal judge ruled in August that Google illegally monopolised the search engine market. The DOJ is also reportedly seeking remedies addressing Google’s artificial intelligence operations and its Android smartphone operating system.  

Chrome’s Role in Google’s Dominance  

Google’s Chrome browser, which commands about two-thirds of the global browser market, is integral to its control over internet access and digital advertising. By integrating Google Search as the default option, Chrome collects vast amounts of user data, fuelling Google’s lucrative ad business.  

The DOJ did not comment on the report, but Google pushed back on the proposed action. Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s vice president for regulatory affairs, described the DOJ’s stance as a “radical agenda” that “goes far beyond the legal issues in this case” and would harm consumers.  

Biden Administration Targets Big Tech  

The DOJ’s move marks one of the Biden administration’s most significant efforts to address alleged monopolistic practices in the tech sector. However, the future of the case could hinge on political developments, including the potential re-election of Donald Trump, who has sent mixed signals regarding action against Google.  

Two months before the last election, Trump pledged to prosecute Google over alleged bias but later expressed uncertainty about breaking up the company.  

Legal Proceedings and Potential Remedies  

US District Judge Amit Mehta, who presided over the earlier ruling, is expected to issue a final judgment by August 2025. A trial to address potential remedies, including the proposed Chrome divestiture, is scheduled for April.  

Prosecutors have presented a range of possible solutions, from ending Google’s exclusive agreements—such as its payments to Apple and others to remain the default search engine on devices—to divesting key assets like Chrome and the Android operating system.  

The government may decide whether divesting Chrome is necessary at a later stage, depending on the impact of other measures on market competition, Bloomberg reported.  

Google’s Defence  

Google has consistently argued that its search engine’s dominance stems from quality and user preference rather than monopolistic practices. The company also pointed to competition from other platforms, such as Amazon, and highlighted that users can switch to alternative search engines.  

Chrome’s vast market share and its integration with Google accounts are key drivers of the company’s revenue, enabling highly targeted search ads. Any forced divestiture could have significant implications for Google’s business model and its broader ecosystem.

(With Reuters inputs)