Google Proposes Loosening Search Engine Deals, Opposes U.S. DOJ's Chrome Sale Demand

Dec 21, 2024, 05:19 AM

Alphabet Inc.'s Google has proposed to loosen its default search engine agreements with companies like Apple to address a U.S. antitrust ruling that found the company unlawfully dominates online search. The proposal, which Google filed on Friday, aims to avoid more drastic measures such as selling its Chrome browser, as suggested by the U.S. Department of Justice. Google has urged U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta to proceed cautiously in determining remedies, following his ruling that Google holds an illegal monopoly in online search and related advertising. The company's proposal includes making its Android agreements with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) non-exclusive and allowing them to unbundle the Google Play Store from Chrome and Search. Google also opposes the DOJ's proposal to sell Chrome, calling it 'extreme' and at odds with the law, arguing that such a move could stifle innovation and future investment.