In a significant ruling, a federal judge has decided that Google will not be required to divest its Chrome browser, despite earlier findings that the tech giant engaged in illegal practices to maintain its monopoly in internet search. The decision, handed down by Judge Amit Mehta, comes over a year after his initial ruling in 2024, which declared Google’s actions in the search market unlawful. The 230-page decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing antitrust battle between Google and the U.S. Department of Justice, reshaping the company’s business practices while allowing it to retain key assets according to Engadget.
The Department of Justice had pushed for a drastic remedy following last year’s ruling, urging the court to force Google to sell off its Chrome browser. Prosecutors argued that such a move was necessary to curb Google’s dominance in the digital ecosystem. However, Judge Mehta rejected this proposal, stating that the government had “overreached” in its demands. The judge also dismissed the possibility of requiring Google to divest its Android operating system as a contingent measure. According to the ruling, these assets were not used to impose illegal restraints, and forcing their sale would be disproportionate to the violations found.
While Google escaped the breakup of its core businesses, the court imposed significant restrictions on its operations. The company will no longer be allowed to enter into exclusive agreements for distributing its search engine, Google Assistant, Gemini, or Chrome browser. These deals, which often ensured Google’s products were the default options on various platforms, were central to the monopoly allegations. However, the ruling permits Google to continue paying partners, such as Apple, to pre-install its search engine and other applications on their devices. The judge noted that completely dismantling these arrangements could disrupt distribution partners, related markets, and ultimately harm consumers through reduced access and innovation.
The decision represents a mixed outcome for Google, preserving its control over Chrome and Android while forcing changes to its long-standing business strategies. The company has signaled its intent to appeal the original monopoly ruling but has not yet commented on the latest decision. In June, Google indicated it would await the court’s final opinion before proceeding with any appeal. The ruling adds another chapter to the ongoing scrutiny of Big Tech, as regulators worldwide grapple with balancing competition and innovation in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. For now, Google retains its core assets but must navigate a new era of restricted deal-making.
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