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U.S. Threatens Google with Break-Up Over Monopoly Concerns

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U.S. Threatens Google with Break-Up Over Monopoly Concerns

The U.S. government is considering asking a judge to dismantle Google’s search engine operations in a move that could radically alter the business practices of tech giants. The Department of Justice (DoJ) has indicated that it may seek “structural requirements” to prevent Google from maintaining what it calls an internet search “monopoly.”

The announcement follows an August court ruling that found Google had unlawfully sustained its dominance in online search through anti-competitive practices. The DoJ is exploring possible measures to prevent Google from using its products, such as Chrome, Play, and Android, to bolster its search engine and related services.

In response, Google cautioned that the proposed changes could lead to unintended negative consequences for both U.S. businesses and consumers. Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s vice president of regulatory affairs, described the measures as “government overreach” in a blog post.

“The remedies necessary to prevent and restrain monopoly maintenance could include contract requirements and prohibitions; non-discrimination product requirements; data and interoperability requirements; and structural requirements,” the DOJ stated in its filing.

The DoJ is expected to present a more detailed set of proposals by November 20, and Google has until December 20 to submit its counterproposals.

The August court ruling dealt a significant blow to Alphabet, Google’s parent company. After a 10-week trial during which prosecutors accused the company of paying billions of dollars to tech firms like Apple and Samsung to ensure it remained their default search engine,

Google’s defense argued that consumers use its search engine because they prefer it, not because of forced arrangements, and that its investments have improved the service for users.

This case is one of several lawsuits targeting major U.S. tech firms, including Meta, Amazon, and Apple, as authorities seek to enhance competition in the technology sector.

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1 Comment

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