Google, the tech giant synonymous with internet searches, is facing a potential breakup as the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) considers drastic measures following a recent federal court ruling, according to El Economista.
Violates Antitrust Laws
The court found that Google, based in Mountain View, California, violates antitrust laws by controlling around 90% of the online search market.
According to sources cited by Bloomberg, the DOJ is contemplating several options, including forcing Google to divest key units such as its Android operating system and Chrome web browser. Another possibility is the sale of AdWords, Google’s text-based advertising platform.
If pursued, the breakup would be the most significant antitrust action against an American company since the dismantling of AT&T in the 1980s. It would also be the first serious attempt to break up a tech giant since the failed effort to divide Microsoft two decades ago.
Share More Data With Competitors
Less severe alternatives under consideration include requiring Google to share more data with competitors and implementing measures to prevent the company from gaining an unfair advantage in artificial intelligence products. These discussions have gained momentum since an August 5th court ruling declared that Google illegally monopolizes the online search and search ad markets—a decision that Google plans to appeal.
The DOJ’s deliberations are still in the early stages, with U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta requesting both parties to outline a process for resolving the case by September 4th. A hearing is scheduled for September 6th to discuss the next steps.
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications, not only for Google but also for other tech giants like Apple, Amazon, and Meta, who are facing their own antitrust battles.
