Proposed remedies from the DOJ could force Alphabet’s Google to separate key business units, such as Chrome and Android, and share user search data with competitors.
This is a consequence of a 2020 antitrust lawsuit, where the DOJ and several states accused Google of using its dominant position to stifle competition in search and related products.
The DOJ’s proposals include prohibiting Google from signing contracts with companies like Apple, Samsung, and Mozilla to make its search engine the default option on their devices, a practice deemed illegal by Judge Amit Mehta. Google reportedly paid Apple US$26 billion for such default arrangements.
Additionally, the DOJ may seek to prevent Google from using search data to train its generative AI models.
In a blog post, Google’s VP of Regulatory Affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, described the DOJ’s remedies as “radical and sweeping,” arguing that breaking up its business would create privacy risks, reduce security, and negatively impact consumers.
She warned that splitting Chrome or Android could result in more expensive devices and harm competition with Apple. Mulholland also claimed that restricting Google’s AI tools would slow American innovation.
The DOJ has until November 20 to refine its proposed remedies, while Google has until December 20 to suggest its own solutions.
