Google facing US government attempt to break up its business, court filing shows

Core Viewpoint - The US government is considering legal actions to break up Google's monopoly in the internet search market, citing antitrust violations and the need to restore competition [1][2]. Group 1: Legal Actions and Proposals - The Department of Justice (DoJ) is contemplating "structural remedies" that would limit Google's use of its products like Chrome, Android, and Play, which are seen as giving it an unfair advantage [1][2]. - Other potential actions include prohibiting Google from paying for its search engine to be pre-installed on devices, which could impact its market dominance [1][2]. - The DoJ's recent filing follows a court ruling that found Google controls 90% of the global search market and has built an illegal monopoly [2]. Group 2: Impact on Competition - The filing emphasizes that Google's conduct has caused "interlocking and pernicious harms" to users, highlighting the critical need to restore competition in the market [2]. - The judgment suggests that remedies should prevent Google from leveraging its products to favor its search engine over competitors, including emerging technologies like artificial intelligence [2][3]. - Google's dominance in distribution channels has left rivals with little incentive to compete, necessitating measures to ensure future competition [3]. Group 3: Google's Response - Google has stated it will challenge the DoJ's proposals, arguing that they represent an "overreach" that could harm consumers and businesses [1][3]. - The company claims the case is focused on search distribution contracts, but the government's approach could have broad implications across various industries [4]. - Google is expected to submit its proposed remedies by December 20, following the DoJ's detailed proposals due by November 20 [4].