Google search engine monopoly could expand using AI, DOJ warns

Date:
Tue, 22 Apr 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Description:
DOJ is now bringing Googles artificial intelligence tools into the argument about its search engine monopoly.

FULL STORY

Google faces an antitrust trial over its alleged misuse of AI products, which could be perceived to be strengthening its dominance in online search
something its already under the microscope about.

The Department of Justice has set out to break Googles monopoly over the
search market, potentially reshaping the internet landscape by giving other companies a chance to get in on the action.

With the investigation ongoing, its unclear what consequences Google might face, but its been suggested that it might be forced to sell off its Chrome browser to pacifiy lawmakers and settle the antitrust investigation.

Googles search monopoly could be boosted by AI

The DOJ argues that Googles monopoly enhances its AI products, further
boosting its dominance, however the US agency has suggested that broader, forward-looking remedies could be needed due to the growing nature of generative AI.

DOJ attorney David Dahlquist explained that Googles search monopoly helps improve its AI products, but they also act as a way to entice users to the search engine, highlighting the intertwined nature of the companys products
and the complex nature of the lawsuit.

Among the deals highlighted at the trial was Googles monthly payment to Samsung, which allows the company to pre-install the Gemini AI app on
devices. The payment amounts to an enormous sum, Dahlquist said.

Very nearly 90% of all online searches use Google (via Statcounter ), with Chrome accounting for around two-thirds of all online sessions.

Googles exclusive agreements to be the default search engine have already
been criticized in relation to its monopoly, including its $20 billion
payment to Apple in 2022 alone (via Bloomberg ).

Google has said that its AI products are unrelated to the search engine case (via Reuters ) and that it plans to appeal once a final judgment is made.

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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/pro/google-search-engine-monopoly-could-expand-using -ai-doj-warns

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