Chrome's sale evasion enforced by Google, yet encounters stricter regulations in antitrust judgment

In a significant development, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta has delivered a mixed ruling in the antitrust case against Google, marking a crucial step forward in the regulatory scrutiny of major technology companies.

The case, which represents the most significant antitrust action against a technology company since the Justice Department's case against Microsoft roughly 25 years ago, stems from allegations that Google maintained its dominance in internet search through anticompetitive practices.

Judge Mehta found that Google violated the Sherman Antitrust Act by operating an illegal monopoly in online search, a ruling that was handed down in August 2024. However, the judge's decision is not as severe as the remedies proposed by the Justice Department.

Google has been ordered to share certain search index data and user interaction data with competitors, a move aimed at promoting fair competition in the market. However, the ruling does not include a contingent divestiture of Google's Android operating system, and Google's key assets, Chrome and Android, were found not to have been used to effect any illegal restraints.

The organization that has obligated Google to share this data is the European Commission, and the first hearing for the final ruling is scheduled for October 2025. Advertising data remains protected for Google.

Google can continue making payments to distribution partners for preloading or placing Google Search, Chrome, or its artificial intelligence products. The company will also be able to continue its lucrative arrangement with Apple, where it pays billions annually to remain the default search engine on iPhones.

However, Google is barred from entering exclusive contracts that make its search engine the default option on browsers and smartphones. The judge's ruling allows Google to continue using its Chrome browser.

Alphabet shares surged 8% in after-hours trading following the ruling, viewed as relatively favorable by investors. Google has announced plans to appeal the ruling.

The court has imposed search data sharing requirements on Google, a decision that marks a significant development in ongoing regulatory scrutiny of major technology companies. The ruling pertains to a landmark antitrust case against Google and could have far-reaching implications for the tech giant and the industry as a whole.

Judge Mehta has ordered both parties to meet by September 10 for final judgment proceedings. The case against Google continues to unfold, with both sides preparing for the next phase of the legal battle.