The US government has taken a bold step against Google. Late Wednesday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) asked a judge to dismantle the tech giant. This includes selling its popular Chrome browser.
The DOJ wants to stop Google from making deals to be the default search engine on smartphones. It also aims to prevent Google from using its Android operating system to gain an unfair edge.
Officials suggested that if these measures don’t work, Google should be forced to sell Android.
This marks a major shift in US regulation of tech companies. For years, regulators have avoided breaking up tech giants. The last major case was against Microsoft over two decades ago.
What’s Next?
Google will respond with its recommendations in a filing next month. Both sides will present their arguments in April before US District Court Judge Amit Mehta.
No matter the outcome, Google is expected to appeal. This could drag the case on for years, possibly ending at the US Supreme Court.
Impact of the New Administration
The case could take a different turn in January when President-elect Donald Trump takes office. His administration will replace the current DOJ antitrust team.
The new team could choose to continue the case, negotiate a settlement, or drop it altogether.
Trump’s stance on Google and big tech has been inconsistent. It’s unclear how his administration will handle the case.
This legal battle could reshape the future of the internet and big tech regulation in the US.
