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Google’s antitrust gut punch and the Trump wild card

Nov 25, 2024 - technologyreview.com
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has released its recommendations for proposed remedies in its antitrust case against Google, which could have significant implications for the tech giant's business. The DOJ is calling for an end to third-party payments, meaning Google would have to stop paying companies like Apple and Mozilla to make Google search the default engine on their browsers and devices. The DOJ also suggests that Google should be forced to divest control and ownership of Chrome and Android, and be prohibited from investing in or buying any search or search text ad rival, search distributor, or rival query-based AI product or ads technology.

The final decision on the remedies will be made by Judge Amit Mehta, who previously ruled in favor of the DOJ and against Google. The case is expected to drag on, with a two-week hearing set for April and a ruling projected in August 2025. The outcome could be influenced by the incoming Trump administration, which could potentially drop the case or push for lighter remedies. However, Google has faced criticism from several figures in Trump's circle, including Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and Peter Thiel.

Key takeaways:

  • The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has released its recommendations for proposed remedies in its antitrust case against Google, which include ending third-party payments, disclosing data to competitors, and divesting control and ownership of Chrome and Android.
  • The DOJ's proposals, if enacted, could have significant consequences for Google's business operations.
  • The final decision on the remedies will be made by Judge Amit Mehta, who could choose to enact more lenient penalties or take up the DOJ's proposals in whole or in part.
  • The outcome of the case could be influenced by the Trump administration, which could potentially drop the case or push for lighter remedies.
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