US DOJ Is Planning To Force Google To Sell Chrome? Here's What We Know

Lee-Anne Mulholland, vice president, Google Regulatory Affairs, accused the DOJ of pushing a "radical agenda that goes far beyond the legal issues in this case."

Chrome’s dominant market share makes it a significant source of revenue for Google.

Source : Unsplash/Alban

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) plans to request a court order requiring Alphabet's Google to divest its Chrome web browser, according to a Bloomberg News report citing sources familiar with the matter. This follows an August ruling where a judge determined that Google had unlawfully monopolised the search market. The DOJ is also expected to seek additional actions addressing Google's operations in artificial intelligence and its Android mobile operating system, the report stated.

Google's dominance in the online ecosystem is partly attributed to its Chrome browser, which integrates Google Search by default, collects data vital to its advertising business, and holds an estimated two-thirds share of the global browser market. This control significantly shapes how users interact with the internet and the advertisements they encounter. According to Reuters, DOJ declined to comment on the matter. 

Lee-Anne Mulholland, vice president, Google Regulatory Affairs, accused the DOJ of pushing a "radical agenda that goes far beyond the legal issues in this case," and would harm consumers.

Trump To Create Troubles For Google?

The Biden administration's proposed action would represent one of its most assertive efforts to address alleged monopolistic practices by Big Tech companies. However, the potential return of Donald Trump to the presidency could significantly influence the case's trajectory. In the months leading up to the 2024 election, Trump voiced intentions to prosecute Google, accusing the company of bias against him. Yet, shortly thereafter, he appeared to waver, questioning whether dismantling the tech giant was the right course of action.

Google is expected to appeal once US District Judge Amit Mehta issues a final decision, anticipated by August 2025. A trial to address proposed remedies is scheduled for April. Prosecutors have outlined various potential solutions, ranging from ending Google's lucrative agreements—such as paying billions to Apple and other firms to secure its position as the default search engine on devices—to more drastic measures, like divesting key business segments, including the Chrome browser and Android operating system.

Chrome’s dominant market share makes it a significant source of revenue for Google. By allowing users to sign into the browser with their Google accounts, the company gains the ability to deliver more personalized and targeted search ads. Google asserts that its search engine’s popularity stems from its superior quality and emphasizes that users have alternatives, including setting other search engines as their default. Additionally, the company points to strong competition from platforms like Amazon and other websites.

According to the Bloomberg report, the government could postpone requiring the sale of Chrome. This decision might depend on whether other proposed remedies successfully foster a more competitive market.