Google, owned by Alphabet, has proposed changes to its revenue-sharing agreements with companies like Apple, which set Google’s search engine as the default on their devices and browsers.
The proposals are part of Google’s ongoing efforts to address concerns raised in a landmark antitrust case. In August, US District Judge Amit Mehta ruled that Google unlawfully stifled competition in online search—a decision Google plans to appeal.
In a legal filing on Friday, Google outlined its proposed remedies, which include continuing such agreements while introducing more flexibility. These measures would allow different default search engines to be assigned to specific platforms and browsing modes and require partners to have the option to change their default search engine at least once every 12 months.
Diverging Views on Remedies
Google’s proposals stand in contrast to the US Department of Justice (DOJ), which has called for more drastic measures. Last month, DOJ attorneys recommended that Judge Mehta order Google to cease revenue-sharing agreements altogether and divest its Chrome web browser.
In response, Google criticised the DOJ’s recommendations as excessive, describing them as “overbroad.” The company argued that even its own proposals would impose significant costs on its partners, but it aims to comply with the court’s requirements.
Dominance in Search
Google’s search engine currently dominates the global market, accounting for approximately 90% of all online searches, according to data from Statcounter.
The final decision on the remedies phase of this case is expected by August, following further trial proceedings. Judge Mehta’s ruling could have significant implications for Google’s business practices and the broader tech industry.
