Title: US Justice Department gives blow to Google, demands to sell Chrome browser and stop default search deals
Washington: The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken a tough stand against Google and has demanded to direct the company to sell its popular Chrome browser. Also, the department wants Google to end all paid agreements through which it is established as the default search engine on various platforms. This step has been taken with the aim of ending Google’s alleged monopoly in the online search market.
DOJ’s grip on Google
In its new lawsuit, the DOJ has accused Google that the company is misusing its dominance, causing serious harm to competition. According to the department, Google has adopted unfair methods to promote its search services through the Chrome browser and prevent consumers from using other search engines.
The DOJ says that Google has strengthened its position as the default search engine by making huge payments with Apple, Samsung and other companies. These agreements have made it difficult for competing companies to enter or survive in the search engine market.
Google’s response
Google has rejected the DOJ’s allegations and said that its business agreements are completely legal and based on user choice. A Google spokesperson said, “Our search services are the most useful and high quality for users, which is why they prefer our platform. This move by DOJ will prove to be harmful to consumers, rather than eliminating competition.”
Will it have to sell Chrome browser?
The DOJ has urged the court to force Google to sell the Chrome browser to ensure a healthy competition in the search market. The Chrome browser is the world’s most popular web browser, which millions of people use daily. If Google has to sell it, it could have a huge impact on the company’s business model.
Experts believe that if the court rules in favor of the DOJ, it will be a historic change in the tech industry. This can tighten surveillance not only on Google but also on other big tech companies.
Reaction of competing companies
This legal action against Google is being welcomed by its competitors. Microsoft, DuckDuckGo and other companies had already filed complaints about Google’s monopoly. These companies say that Google’s default search deals have harmed their business and eliminated competition.
DuckDuckGo CEO Gabriel Weinberg tweeted, “This is the right time to promote fair competition in the tech industry. This move by DOJ is in the interest of consumers.”
US government’s strictness on digital monopoly
The US government has been tightening the noose around big tech companies for the past few years. Companies like Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google have already been investigated for monopoly and anti-competitive behavior.
This new move by DOJ makes it clear that the US no longer wants to leave big tech companies unbridled. If this case goes against Google, it will also be a big message for other tech companies to bring transparency in their business models and not hinder competition.
What will happen next?
The case will be heard in the coming months and experts believe the trial could drag on for years. However, if the court rules in favor of the DOJ, Google may have to sell the Chrome browser and discontinue its default search deals.
Meanwhile, the tech industry and consumers are keeping a close eye on the case. It will be interesting to see if Google makes any major changes to its business model or will continue the battle in court.
This case is not just limited to Google, but it can become an important precedent for the entire tech industry. The outcome of this legal battle will be extremely important to protect fair competition and user choice in the digital world.