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Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has joined a coalition of 38 attorneys general and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to submit a final proposal aimed at ending Google’s dominance in the internet search engine market. The revised Proposed Final Judgment, filed in federal court in Washington, D.C., seeks to restore competition in the search industry, addressing a previous ruling that identified Google as a monopolist in online search.
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The proposed remedies include a ban on search-related payments to distribution partners, such as Apple and Android. The plan also calls for Google to divest its Chrome browser, with a potential requirement to divest Android if initial measures are ineffective or if Google fails to comply. Additionally, the plaintiffs would gain the right to review Google’s future financial interests in online search and generative AI competitors to prevent similar monopolistic practices in emerging technologies.
The proposal further suggests that Google be required to share certain data, including parts of its search index, user data, and ads data, with competitors for a limited period. This measure aims to prevent Google from benefiting from its previous anti-competitive actions. The revised judgment incorporates more specific guidelines for data sharing, balancing privacy and national security considerations.
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A court hearing on the proposed remedies is set to begin on April 21, 2025, and conclude by May 9, 2025. If approved, the new measures could significantly alter the digital advertising and search engine landscape, promoting fair competition and consumer choice.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors.
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