Google May Be Forced to Sell Chrome: DOJ's Antitrust Trial Unfolds
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is pursuing structural remedies in its antitrust case against Google, including the potential divestiture of the Chrome browser.
This follows a 2024 ruling by Judge Amit Mehta that found Google had illegally maintained a monopoly in online search.
The DOJ argues that Google's dominance in search is reinforced by its control over Chrome, which defaults to Google Search and collects user data to enhance its AI capabilities.
Prosecutors contend that this integration stifles competition and innovation.
As the remedies phase of the trial commenced on April 21, 2025, the DOJ presented proposals that include:
- Forcing Google to sell Chrome.
- Ending exclusive agreements that set Google as the default search engine on devices.
- Requiring Google to share search data with competitors.
Google opposes these measures, asserting that they would harm consumers by increasing costs and hindering innovation.
The company plans to appeal any unfavorable decision.
Meanwhile, companies like Yahoo and DuckDuckGo have expressed interest in acquiring Chrome, should it become available.
DuckDuckGo's CEO estimates Chrome's value at up to $50 billion, highlighting its strategic importance in the browser market.
The trial's outcome could significantly reshape the digital world that's already changing every day (all thanks to AI) and is going to affect how users access information online.
However, a decision is expected by August 2025, though appeals may extend the timeline.
