In a landmark ruling, a US judge has rejected the government’s demand that Google sell its Chrome web browser as part of a major antitrust case.
Instead, the judge imposed sweeping requirements to restore competition in online search. The decision came after Judge Amit Mehta found in August 2024 that Google illegally maintained monopolies in online search through exclusive distribution agreements worth billions of dollars annually.
The ruling allows Google to continue its current business practices, but with some significant changes. Google must make available to “qualified competitors” search index data and user interaction information that rivals can use to improve their services.
This move aims to promote competition and innovation in the online search space. Additionally, Google is restricted from using exclusive deals to dominate the AI space, particularly with regards to generative artificial intelligence chatbots like ChatGPT.
Shares in Google parent Alphabet skyrocketed by 7.5% in after-hours trading following the decision, while Apple’s stock rose by more than 3%. Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities described the ruling as a “monster win” for Apple and a “home run” for Google, removing a significant overhang on the stock.
A technical committee will oversee the implementation of the remedies, which take effect 60 days after the judgment is entered.
The Justice Department has stated that it will continue to review the opinion to consider its options and next steps regarding seeking additional relief.
Google faces another legal case regarding its web display advertising technology business, and the US has five pending antitrust cases against major technology companies, including Google, Apple, Amazon, and Meta.
