DOJ seeks Chrome spin off in case of Google’s monopoly – report

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed critical steps over concerns of Google’s (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) monopolistic practices, seeking the sale of its Chrome web browser on Wednesday, Reuters reported.

The government asserts that Google’s (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) strategies have unfairly skewed competition, making it difficult for smaller search engines to gain traction.

“Google’s unlawful behavior has deprived rivals not only of critical distribution channels but also distribution partners who could otherwise enable entry into these markets by competitors in new and innovative ways,” DOJ cited.

“The playing field is not level because of Google’s conduct, and Google’s quality reflects the ill-gotten gains of an advantage illegally acquired,” the lawyers wrote. “The remedy must close this gap and deprive Google of these advantages.”

A trial is scheduled for April 2025, where both sides will present their arguments regarding these significant changes to Google’s (GOOG) business operation.

The DOJ also demands prohibiting Google (GOOG) from reentering the browser market for five years and requiring the company to sell its Android mobile operating system in the event that other remedies are unable to bring competition back. Additionally, it has asked for a ban on Google (GOOG) purchasing or investing in any search rivals, query-based AI products, or advertising technology.