Press "Enter" to skip to content

Google’s Chrome and Search Deals in DOJ’s Crosshairs as Trial Looms

By Brett Tabke on March 7, 2025

Reuters is reporting that the U.S. Department of Justice has opted to withdraw its proposal that would have mandated Google to divest its stakes in artificial intelligence firms such as Anthropic, citing concerns over possible unintended repercussions in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Nevertheless, the DOJ, along with a coalition of state attorneys general, remains committed to urging Google to divest its Chrome browser and to implement strategies aimed at addressing what a judge has deemed an illegal monopoly in search services. This case is part of a larger antitrust initiative targeting major technology companies across various administrations, underscoring the delicate balance between promoting competition and sustaining U.S. leadership in technology. Google, which intends to appeal the decision, contends that the DOJ’s recommendations could negatively impact consumers and national security, while prosecutors maintain that dismantling monopolistic control is crucial for ensuring fair competition and fostering innovation.

With a trial scheduled for April, Google has suggested relaxing the agreements that designate it as the default search engine on devices, in an effort to alleviate the DOJ’s requirements. Additionally, a stipulation for Google to share search data with competitors remains in place, although it now permits Google to impose fees and limit access based on national security considerations. The case has garnered bipartisan backing from attorneys general and support from organizations such as the Alphabet Workers Union-CWA. While Google continues to assert its vital role in maintaining America’s AI leadership, regulators seem resolute in their efforts to limit its power, indicating that antitrust scrutiny of major technology firms will continue irrespective of political changes.

Published in Google