Google has argued that selling off Chrome, the world’s most popular web browser, would harm both consumers and businesses. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly set to propose this move to a judge, following a ruling in August that Google holds a monopoly on online search.
According to Bloomberg, the DOJ will present its proposal to Judge Amit Mehta, who is also considering potential penalties for Google. Google strongly opposes the idea, with executive Lee-Anne Mulholland stating that the DOJ’s approach goes beyond legal concerns and could negatively impact consumers, developers, and the country’s tech leadership.
Chrome, which holds a 64.61% global market share, and Google search, with nearly 90% of the global search engine market, are central to the DOJ’s scrutiny. Google’s search engine is the default in Chrome and many mobile browsers, including Safari on iPhones. The DOJ is also looking into other aspects of Google’s business, such as its Android operating system, use of data, and AI tools.
Google has previously rejected the notion that it operates a monopoly, arguing that splitting off products like Chrome or Android would damage them and raise costs for consumers. The company also warned it would make Chrome less secure. The DOJ’s remedies, including potentially a break-up of Google, are expected to be reviewed in the coming days.
