DOJ Considers Breaking Up Google Following Monopoly Ruling
- M.R Mishra
- Oct 10, 2024
- 3 min read
The Department of Justice has recommended that Google be broken up as an antitrust remedy, citing its monopoly in the search market. The DOJ has suggested a range of remedies, including contract requirements, non-discrimination product requirements, data and interoperability requirements, and structural requirements. The judge has not yet decided on the remedies, and Google will likely appeal, drawing out the process potentially for years.
On Tuesday evening, the Department of Justice (DOJ) suggested it might pursue a breakup of Google as an antitrust solution. The DOJ is exploring both behavioral and structural remedies to stop Google from using platforms like Chrome, Play, and Android to strengthen its dominance in search. Although the court has not yet determined the final remedies, and Google is expected to appeal, the process could be prolonged for years.
The DOJ's suggestions aim to prevent Google from unfairly leveraging its products to favor its search engine, including potential limits on agreements like those Google has with Apple and Samsung, which position its search engine as the default on their devices. One proposal includes introducing a "choice screen" that would allow users to select from different search engines.
These recommendations follow an August court ruling declaring Google a monopoly in the search market. The government filed the case in 2020, accusing Google of maintaining its dominance through high entry barriers and a self-reinforcing feedback loop. The ruling found that Google's practices violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act, which prohibits monopolistic behaviors.
While Google's President of Global Affairs, Kent Walker, announced the company would appeal the ruling, the DOJ has also recommended Google share its search index and AI-powered tools with competitors, while limiting its use of data that competitors cannot access. The final decision on these remedies is expected by August 2025, but Google’s appeal could extend the timeline.
DOJ's Proposal
Antitrust Concerns: The DOJ is considering breaking up Google due to concerns about its dominance in the search market.
Dominant Position: Google's use of platforms like Chrome, Play, and Android has strengthened its dominance in search.
Proposed Remedies: The DOJ is exploring both behavioral and structural remedies, including potential limits on agreements with Apple and Samsung and the introduction of a "choice screen."
Monopoly Ruling: The DOJ's proposal follows a court ruling declaring Google a monopoly in the search market.
Data Sharing and Competition: The DOJ has recommended Google share its search index and AI-powered tools with competitors and limit its use of data that competitors cannot access.
Potential Appeal: Google has announced its intention to appeal the monopoly ruling.
Regulatory Challenges: The DOJ's proposal adds to Google's existing regulatory challenges, including recent court orders related to the Play Store.
Dominant Market Position: Google's dominance in the search market remains strong, with a 90% market share
Google’s regulatory affairs vice president, Lee-Anne Mulholland, criticized the DOJ's approach, calling it extreme and warning that breaking up key platforms like Chrome or Android could cause widespread disruption. Experts believe that, while some exclusive agreements may be canceled, a full breakup is unlikely.
Google continues to dominate the search market, with its search and other services generating significant revenue, and the company holds 90% of the search market share. In a related case, a U.S. judge recently ordered Google to provide alternatives to its Play Store for app downloads on Android devices, further adding to its regulatory challenges.
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