The Blubber

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly planning to ask a judge to require Alphabet's Google to divest its Chrome internet browser, according to Bloomberg News, which cites sources familiar with the situation. This request follows an earlier ruling in August where the judge found that Google had illegally monopolized the search market.

In addition to targeting Chrome, the DOJ is expected to propose measures addressing Google’s use of artificial intelligence and its Android smartphone operating system. Chrome plays a pivotal role in Google’s ecosystem, influencing how users access the internet and view ads. The browser, which is estimated to hold about two-thirds of the global market, integrates with Google search and collects data crucial to the company’s advertising business.

A spokesperson for the DOJ declined to comment, while Google’s Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, criticized the move, describing it as part of a "radical agenda that goes far beyond the legal issues in this case" and warning that it would harm consumers.

This development marks one of the Biden administration's most assertive efforts to curb what it perceives as monopolistic practices by Big Tech companies. However, the outcome could be influenced significantly by the recent re-election of Donald Trump. While Trump previously announced plans to prosecute Google over alleged bias, he later expressed doubts about the merits of breaking up the company.

Google plans to appeal the final ruling once it is issued by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, likely by August 2025. A trial to determine potential remedies is scheduled for April. Prosecutors have floated various options, from ending exclusive agreements—such as the billions Google pays Apple and others to be the default search engine on devices—to divesting parts of its business like Chrome or the Android operating system.

Given Chrome’s extensive market share, the browser represents a significant source of revenue for Google. By linking Chrome accounts with Google accounts, the company can deliver highly targeted search ads. Google has defended its dominance, asserting that its search engine attracts users through quality and that it faces significant competition from platforms like Amazon and others.

The DOJ may delay a decision on requiring a Chrome divestiture if other proposed remedies effectively create a more competitive market. However, with the browser’s critical role in Google’s ecosystem, any such move would be a severe blow to the tech giant.