U.S. Justice Department wants to split Google - the department has prepared recommendations for the court

The U.S. Department of Justice has made recommendations for breaking up Google to prevent monopoly practices.

The DOJ is considering the possibility of filing a request in federal court to compel Google to divest a portion of its business to eliminate its monopoly on internet search. Additionally, Google may be required to provide competitors with access to the foundational data that the company uses for its search engine operations and artificial intelligence products.

“For over a decade, Google has controlled the most popular distribution channels, leaving competitors with little incentive to compete for users. Completely eradicating this harm requires not only ending Google's control over distribution today but also ensuring that Google cannot control distribution tomorrow,” the statement reads.

The department is considering demanding structural changes that would prevent Google from using the Chrome browser, Android operating system, AI products, or app store in a way that favors its search business. Prosecutors are also focusing on agreements that designate Google as the default search provider. The statement indicated that any proposed remedies would aim to limit or prohibit such deals.

Lee-Ann MalhoLand, Google’s Vice President for Regulatory Affairs, responded to the statement, saying that the Department of Justice “is already signaling requests that go far beyond the specific legal issues” in this case.

“Excessive government intervention in a rapidly evolving industry can have negative unintended consequences for American innovation and consumers. It appears the government is adhering to a broad program that will impact numerous industries and products with significant unintended consequences for consumers, businesses, and American competitiveness,” MalhoLand said.

In August, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta ruled that Google had illegally leveraged its dominance to stifle competition and innovation. The judge found that Google processes more than 90% of all internet search queries in the U.S. He outlined a timeline for considering proposed remedies next spring and plans to issue a ruling by August 2025. Google has already announced that it intends to appeal the court's decision.

Source: CBS