U.S. President Donald Trump’s Justice Department has upheld a key antitrust push initiated under Joe Biden calling for Google’s breakup.
In a rare instance of continuity between administrations, U.S. President Donald Trump’s Justice Department has upheld a key antitrust push initiated under Joe Biden calling for Google’s breakup. This decision signals ongoing scrutiny of major tech companies, with potential consequences for the entire industry.
DOJ’s Case Against Google
Despite expectations that the Trump-led DOJ might soften its stance, the department maintained its call for Google to divest its Chrome browser. In a recent filing, the DOJ argued that Google’s vast market control has deprived consumers and businesses of fair competition, reinforcing its position that the tech giant’s dominance needs to be curtailed.
“Google must divest the Chrome browser,” the DOJ declared, adding that rivals should have the chance to operate a “significant gateway to search the internet, free of Google’s monopoly control.”
The DOJ also recommended blocking Google from securing contracts that make its search engine the default option on devices like Apple and Samsung smartphones. This could have significant financial implications, as Google reportedly paid $26 billion in 2021 alone for these default placements most of which went to Apple.
Implications for the Tech Industry
This aggressive stance has raised concerns across the industry. Apple, Meta, and Amazon are already facing their own antitrust battles, and the DOJ’s position suggests they could encounter similarly tough enforcement.
“Tech giants hoping for a more lenient approach from the new administration may need to rethink their expectations,” said Craig Smith, an IP litigation attorney. Others, like Damian Rollison of SOCi, believe this move could mark one of the most significant challenges to tech monopolies in modern history.
Competitors Push for Android’s Breakup
Rival companies aren’t standing still. French privacy-focused tech company Murena has joined the call for Google to divest Android, arguing that Google’s ad-driven business model makes it nearly impossible for alternative operating systems to compete.
“Google can offer Android for free because it profits off users in other ways, creating a cycle of domination,” said Murena COO Rik Viergever.
A Balancing Act: Antitrust vs. AI
While cracking down on Google’s dominance in search and browsers, the DOJ has softened its position on AI. Notably, it withdrew a proposal that would have forced Google to divest from AI investments, including its stake in OpenAI competitor Anthropic. Officials cited concerns over potential unintended consequences in the evolving AI landscape.
A New Era of Tech Regulation?
The Trump administration’s decision to continue the DOJ’s tough stance on Google sends a clear message: Big Tech is still in the government’s crosshairs. Whether this is a strategic move to keep companies in line or a genuine effort to foster competition remains to be seen, but the ripple effects across the industry are undeniable.
