The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has called on Google to divest its Chrome browser, following an antitrust ruling in August that found the company holds a monopoly in the search market. The proposal is part of a broader effort to reduce Google's dominance and foster competition in the tech sector.

Launched in 2008, Chrome plays a pivotal role in Google's ad-targeting ecosystem by funneling user data into its advertising platform. The DOJ's filing stated that divesting Chrome would dismantle Google's control of a critical internet access point, allowing rival search engines a fair shot at market entry.

The agency also proposed additional measures to curb Google's influence. These include barring exclusionary agreements with third parties, such as Apple and Samsung, and restricting Google from favoring its search engine within its ecosystem of products.

Another key remedy involves preventing Google from stifling competition through acquisitions, investments, or partnerships. The DOJ recommends a 10-year enforcement period, with oversight from a technical committee to ensure compliance.

Google's advertising business underscores its market dominance, generating $49.4 billion in revenue in the third quarter of 2024. This represents three-quarters of parent company Alphabet's total ad sales during the period.

Google criticized the DOJ's proposals, with Kent Walker, its Global Affairs President, calling the recommendations “overbroad” and harmful to consumers and innovation. Walker argued the DOJ's approach threatens the company's AI and privacy advancements, describing it as “unprecedented government overreach.”

The DOJ's demands come after a federal judge ruled in August that Google violated the Sherman Act by maintaining monopolistic control over the search market. The case stems from a 2020 lawsuit alleging Google used exclusionary agreements and feedback loops to block competition.

While Google plans to appeal the ruling, legal experts suggest the court may prioritize limiting Google's exclusive agreements with companies like Apple over forcing a breakup. However, the DOJ's aggressive stance signals its intent to reshape the competitive landscape of the tech industry.