US DOJ Seeks Court Mandate for Google to Sell Chrome Browser
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is preparing to request a court order to compel Google, owned by Alphabet Inc., to divest its Chrome internet browser, Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing Reuters.
This move follows an August ruling where a judge determined that Google had unlawfully monopolized the search market. Additionally, the DOJ plans to seek further action regarding Google's practices in artificial intelligence (AI) and its Android smartphone operating system, the report noted.
Google's Chrome browser, which typically defaults to Google Search, controls about two-thirds of the global browser market. It plays a crucial role in Google's advertising business by gathering user data to personalize browsing experiences and advertisements.
Responses from DOJ and Google
The DOJ declined to comment on the matter. Google’s Vice President for Regulatory Affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, criticized the DOJ’s approach in a statement, describing it as a “radical agenda that goes far beyond the scope of this case and will ultimately harm consumers.”
Aggressive Action Against Big Tech
This initiative by the Biden administration marks one of its most assertive moves against major technology companies. However, with Donald Trump’s reelection, there is potential for shifts in the case’s trajectory.
Google maintains that its search engine’s popularity stems from quality and claims it faces robust competition from other tech giants.
