An employee passes a screen showing Berlin landmarks during the opening day of a new Berlin office of US internet search giant Google in Berlin on January 22, 2019. TOBIAS SCHWARZ/AFP via Getty Images
On August 5, Monday, Reuters shared that a US judge ruled that Google has been operating an illegal monopoly, spending billions of dollars to secure its position as the world's default search engine.
At the same time, the court also found that Google controls approximately 90% of the online search market and 95% of searches on smartphones, which it maintained by paying $26.3 billion in 2021 alone to remain the default choice on devices and browsers.
The ruling sets the stage for a potential breakup of Google parent company Alphabet. A second trial will decide how to address Google's monopoly, which could lead to major changes in the online advertising industry, where Google currently holds a leading position.
The legal proceedings, including possible appeals, could extend into 2026, prolonging uncertainty for the tech giant.
Alphabet has announced plans to appeal the decision, asserting that while the ruling acknowledges Google as the best search engine, it should not be restricted in making it readily accessible.
US Attorney General Merrick Garland hailed the ruling as a landmark victory for Americans, asserting that no corporation is above the law. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre commended the decision, citing the importance of a free and equitable internet.
This case is one of several recent antitrust actions against major technology companies, including Meta Platforms, Amazon, and Apple. Senator Amy Klobuchar cited the bipartisan support for these efforts, calling the ruling a significant victory for competition.
The Google case, filed in 2020, marks the first major monopoly accusation by the US government against a corporation in a generation, reminiscent of the Justice Department's action against Microsoft in 2004.
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