The US Justice Department has informed a federal judge that it is contemplating a recommendation to force Google to divest certain parts of its operations to address the harm caused by its monopolization of the online search market.
This potential move could result in a historic antitrust breakup of the tech giant, according to Bloomberg.
In a court filing on Tuesday, antitrust enforcers indicated that Judge Amit Mehta could also compel Alphabet Inc.’s subsidiary to grant access to the underlying data it utilizes to generate search results and develop its artificial intelligence products.
The Justice Department “is considering behavioral and structural remedies that would prevent Google from using products such as Chrome, Play, and Android to advantage Google search and Google search-related products and features — including emerging search access points and features, such as artificial intelligence — over rivals or new entrants,” the agency said in the filing.
The filing marks Washington’s first significant attempt to dismantle a company for illegal monopolization since the unsuccessful efforts to break up Microsoft Corp. two decades ago.
The 32-page document outlines various options for the judge to consider as the case transitions to the remedy phase.
Antitrust enforcers noted that Google has reaped scale and data advantages from its illegal distribution agreements with other tech companies, which established its search engine as the default option on smartphones and web browsers.
The Justice Department indicated that it may seek a requirement for Google to grant websites greater ability to opt out of its artificial intelligence products.
Additionally, the agency is considering proposals aimed at addressing Google’s dominance in search text ads, including mandates for the company to offer advertisers more information and control over the placement of their ads.
Moreover, the agency may request restrictions on Google’s ability to invest in search competitors or potential rivals.
A more detailed proposal outlining potential remedies is expected to be submitted next month.
Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Meanwhile, it was earlier reported that a US Judge ruled that Google had violated antitrust laws in both the online search and search text ads markets.
Google has stated its intention to appeal the ruling
