The US government is considering seeking the break-up of Google, the world’s biggest search engine, over allegations of causing “pernicious harms” to Americans. The Department of Justice has been exploring remedies following a court ruling in August that found Google illegally stifled competition in online search.
If the proposed remedies are accepted, it could mark one of the largest regulatory interventions in big tech history. Google has vehemently opposed the measures, calling them “radical” and “sweeping,” warning of potential negative impacts on consumers, businesses, and developers.
Google’s dominance in the search engine market, accounting for about 90% of all online searches, has raised concerns. The DOJ accuses the company of leveraging products like Chrome and Android to steer users towards its search engine and generate revenue from ads.
The DOJ is considering remedies to prevent Google from favoring its search-related products through other platforms. Google has until November 20 to submit detailed proposals, with a deadline for its own remedies set for December 20.
In response, Google’s vice president of regulatory affairs argued against the proposed measures, claiming they could lead to higher prices for consumers. The company also defended its practices in the online advertising market, citing competition from platforms like TikTok and Amazon.
Experts suggest that reducing Google’s market dominance will require more than just regulatory intervention. It could create opportunities for smaller competitors to thrive, leading to a more diverse and competitive market. The outcome of this case may also set a precedent for regulating other tech giants like Meta Platforms, Amazon, and Apple.
