Google’s business could be broken up. The US Justice Department told a federal judge that it is considering recommending that Google sell some part of its operations. According to a Bloomberg report, this could be done to reduce its monopoly in the online search market.
Antitrust enforcers said in a Tuesday court filing that Judge Amit Mehta could also order the Alphabet Inc unit to provide data it used to create its search results and artificial intelligence products.
What can be said to Google?
The Justice Department is considering solutions that would prevent Google from using products such as Chrome, Google Play and Android, the agency said in a filing. The 32-page document lays out a framework of potential options for judges to consider.
The agency said it would provide a full proposal on the solution next month. The Nasdaq 100 index fell by about 0.3% after the filing.
According to the report, this is a big attempt to curb the monopoly of a big tech company. Two decades ago, an attempt was made to break up Microsoft Corp, which was unsuccessful.
Offers related to search text ads also included
The agency said Google benefited from illegal distribution with other tech companies that made its search engine the default option on smartphones and web browsers. Google’s Android business includes the operating system used on smartphones, devices and apps.
The Justice Department also said it could demand that Google give websites more power to opt out of its artificial intelligence products. The agency said it is considering proposals related to Google’s dominance over search text ads. The company could be asked to give advertisers more information and control over where their ads appear.
The agency could also request that Google be banned from investing in potential competitors. Google criticized the Justice Department’s filing and said it could have a material adverse effect on consumers, businesses and competition in the US.