US urges curb of Google's search dominance as AI looms

Core Viewpoint - The US government is urging a federal judge to require Google to spin off its Chrome browser, citing concerns that artificial intelligence could enhance Google's dominance in online search [1][2][3]. Group 1: Legal Proceedings - The Department of Justice (DOJ) presented its case before District Judge Amit Mehta, emphasizing that the future of the internet is at stake [2]. - Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater stated that if Google's practices are not addressed, it could control significant portions of the internet for the next decade, particularly in AI technologies [3]. - Google argues that the DOJ's request for a Chrome spinoff exceeds the original scope of the lawsuit, which primarily focuses on Google's agreements with partners like Apple and Samsung [4][6]. Group 2: Antitrust Issues - A recent ruling found that Google holds monopoly power in the online ad technology market, which could impact its revenue significantly [7]. - The DOJ and several states have accused Google of illegal practices to dominate digital advertising sectors, including publisher ad servers and ad exchanges [7][8]. - District Court Judge Leonie Brinkema ruled that Google engaged in anticompetitive acts to maintain its monopoly in the publisher ad server and ad exchange markets [9]. Group 3: Financial Implications - Online advertising is crucial for Google's revenue, funding services like Maps, Gmail, and search, while also supporting its AI investments [10]. - The combination of legal challenges could lead to a restructuring of Google, potentially limiting its influence in the tech industry [10].