Google Proposes Non-Exclusive Search Deals and Unbundling to Counter DOJ's Demand for Chrome Sale

Dec 24, 2024, 08:42 AM

Google is attempting to address antitrust concerns by proposing alternatives to the U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) suggestion that it should sell its Chrome browser. Google's counterproposal includes revising its search distribution agreements with partners like Apple and Mozilla to be non-exclusive, allowing partners to enter into multiple default search engine deals across different platforms and change their default search provider annually. Additionally, Google suggests allowing device manufacturers more flexibility to preload multiple search services and unbundle services like the Play Store, Chrome browser, and Google Search. The DOJ, however, seeks more drastic measures, including the potential sale of Chrome and Android, to restore competition in online search. Apple, which benefits from a $20 billion annual deal with Google to set it as the default search engine on Safari, has asked to participate in Google's upcoming antitrust trial, arguing that Google can no longer adequately represent Apple's interests as it defends against efforts to break up its business units. Apple's senior vice president of services, Eddy Cue, has stated that Apple has no plans to develop its own search engine, citing the high cost, the rapid evolution of search due to AI, and the need for a platform to sell targeted advertising, which is not a core business for Apple.