The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated a significant antitrust trial against Alphabet’s Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL), accusing the technology leader of leveraging its dominance in online search to unfairly promote its artificial intelligence products.

The DOJ calls for substantial structural remedies, including possibly breaking up Google’s Chrome browser to dismantle the company’s search monopoly. Prosecutors argue that this monopoly not only impedes competition but also gives Google unfair advantages for its AI products, reinforcing its dominant online stance.

The Stakes Involved

During court proceedings, DOJ attorney David Dahlquist stated, “Now is the time to remind monopolists like Google… they will face consequences for breaking antitrust laws.” The case is drawing parallels to landmark breakups in history, such as AT&T and Standard Oil, landmark rulings that reshaped their respective industries.

Given Google’s pivotal role in accessing internet information, the trial’s verdict could alter how billions of users seek out information online. According to the DOJ, Google’s dominance in search manifests a feedback loop that enhances its AI features, further driving users back into Google’s ecosystem.

AI Central to the Argument

One revealing detail surfaced: Google pays Samsung (KS:005930) a significant monthly sum to preload the Gemini AI app on smartphones, an agreement potentially extending through 2028. The DOJ claims such arrangements limit competition and perpetuate Google’s dominance in both search and AI markets.

The DOJ emphasizes that any court-imposed remedies must be forward-looking, particularly given that search and generative AI functions are increasingly intertwined.

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