The U.S. Justice Department is considering breaking up Google’s parent company, Alphabet, after a court ruling found the tech giant had monopolized the online search market. This move would be Washington’s first attempt to dismantle a company for illegal monopolization since the failed attempt to break up Microsoft two decades ago. Other options being considered include forcing Google to share data with competitors and implementing measures to prevent unfair advantages in artificial intelligence products.
The government is likely to seek a ban on exclusive contracts, the focus of the case against Google. If a breakup plan moves forward, the Android operating system and Google’s web browser Chrome are the most likely units to be divested. Additionally, officials may push for the sale of AdWords, Google’s text advertising platform. This potential breakup could have significant implications for the tech industry and competition in the online market.