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Google Faces DOJ Push to Divest Chrome and Android to Restore Search Market Competition!

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Google Faces DOJ Push to Divest Chrome and Android to Restore Search Market Competition!

In a landmark case that could redefine the digital landscape, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has called for Alphabet’s Google to take sweeping measures to address its dominance in online search. Prosecutors are urging Google to sell its Chrome browser and potentially its Android operating system, along with adopting other significant reforms, to break what has been deemed an illegal monopoly in search and related advertising markets.

DOJ’s Proposed Measures

The DOJ’s proposals aim to restore competition in the search market, where Google processes about 90% of all U.S. searches. These measures, which could remain in place for up to a decade, include:

  • Divesting Chrome: Google would be required to sell its Chrome browser to reduce its control over user data and ad targeting.
  • Selling Android (if necessary): If other remedies fail to create competition, Google might have to divest its Android mobile operating system.
  • Ending Exclusive Agreements: Google would no longer be allowed to pay billions to device manufacturers like Apple to make its search engine the default option.
  • Data Sharing: Google must license its search results to competitors at nominal costs and share user data freely, provided it does not breach privacy laws.
  • Opt-Out for Publishers: Websites and publishers would have the ability to exclude their content from training Google’s AI tools.

To ensure compliance, the DOJ has proposed establishing a five-person technical committee, funded by Google, with the authority to oversee enforcement.

Impact on Competition

Prosecutors argue that Google’s practices create a “perpetual feedback loop” that solidifies its market dominance through increased user data and advertising dollars. The DOJ claims these anti-competitive practices have deprived rivals of opportunities to innovate and grow.

Kamyl Bazbaz, head of public affairs at search engine DuckDuckGo, described the proposals as a significant step toward leveling the playing field, enabling smaller competitors to enter the market more effectively.

Google Pushes Back

In response, Alphabet Chief Legal Officer Kent Walker criticized the DOJ’s proposals, calling them “unprecedented government overreach.” Walker warned that these measures would harm consumers, developers, and small businesses, jeopardizing America’s technological leadership.

Google contends that forcing the sale of Chrome and Android—both built on open-source platforms—would negatively impact companies that have developed their products on these frameworks. Walker stated:

“The DOJ’s proposal would literally require us to install not one but two separate choice screens before you could access Google Search on a Pixel phone you bought.”

The company is set to present its counter-proposals in December, with the trial on the DOJ’s recommendations scheduled for April.

Chrome and Android: Key Assets Under Scrutiny

Chrome, the world’s most popular web browser, and Android, a dominant mobile operating system, are integral to Google’s business model. Both platforms enable Google to promote its search engine and gather user data, which drives its advertising revenues.

Prosecutors argue that Google’s bundling of its search engine with these platforms has stifled competition. The DOJ’s proposals would prohibit Google from mandating that Android devices include its search engine or AI tools, offering companies more freedom to choose alternatives.

Global Context

This case follows similar regulatory actions in Europe, where Google has faced fines and data-sharing requirements. DuckDuckGo has accused Google of circumventing European Union rules—a charge that Google denies while citing its commitment to user trust and privacy.

Next Steps

As the DOJ prepares for a trial in April 2025 regarding these recommendations, the outcome could reshape not only Google’s operations but also the broader tech industry. The stakes are high for both the company and the future of competition in digital markets.

Potential Implications

If successful, these measures could lead to significant changes in how tech companies operate within competitive markets. A divestiture of Chrome or Android may open up opportunities for new entrants in both browser and mobile operating systems markets.

Conclusion

The ongoing legal battle between the DOJ and Google represents a critical moment in antitrust enforcement within the tech industry. As regulators seek to dismantle monopolistic practices that hinder competition, all eyes will be on how this case unfolds and what it means for consumers and competitors alike. The potential restructuring of Google’s core services could pave the way for a more competitive landscape in digital search and advertising.

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78 Comments

78 Comments

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Apple to Shift Entire US iPhone Assembly to India by 2026

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Apple - StartupStories

Apple is set to relocate all assembly of iPhones destined for the US market from China to India by the end of 2026, marking its biggest manufacturing shift in decades. The move is driven by escalating US-China trade tensions and steep tariffs—up to 145% on Chinese imports—making Chinese assembly increasingly costly for Apple. Although some smartphone imports are temporarily exempt, a 20% duty still applies to Chinese-made iPhones entering the US.

 

India, in contrast, offers a more favorable trade environment, with a paused 26% reciprocal tariff and ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade deal with the US that could shield Indian exports from future levies. Apple plans to more than double its current iPhone output in India, aiming to assemble over 60 million units annually for the US market. The company already produces about 25% of its global iPhones in India, working with partners like Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and Pegatron.

 

This shift is part of Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on China amid geopolitical risks. However, the transition’s success will depend on how quickly India can scale up its manufacturing capabilities and the outcome of ongoing trade negotiations.


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PhonePe’s PINCODE Launches 10-Minute Medicine Delivery in Cities

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PhonePe’s PINCODE app has launched a 24×7 online medicine delivery service in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune, promising delivery of both prescription and over-the-counter medicines within 10 minutes from nearby local medical shops. Unlike conventional e-pharmacies that use dark stores, PINCODE partners exclusively with neighborhood pharmacies, enabling faster deliveries and supporting local businesses in the digital economy.

Customers without prescriptions can select a “no prescription” option when ordering; a qualified doctor then provides a free teleconsultation and issues a digital prescription compliant with telemedicine guidelines, ensuring seamless access to medicines. The app offers competitive pricing by passing discounts from local pharmacies directly to customers and charges no delivery fees.

PINCODE’s hyperlocal model enhances healthcare accessibility and convenience while empowering local pharmacies, helping them remain integral to their communities and stimulating local economic growth. Launched in 2023, the app focuses on quick commerce with an emphasis on speed, reliability, and supporting local sellers.

In summary, PhonePe’s PINCODE app is transforming medicine delivery in major Indian cities by combining ultra-fast 10-minute delivery, free doctor consultations, and a hyperlocal sourcing model that benefits both consumers and neighborhood pharmacies.

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Piyush Anchliya Joins Cashfree as CFO Amid Fintech Boom

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Cashfree Payment - StartupStories

Cashfree Payments has appointed Piyush Anchliya as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective April 15, 2025. Anchliya brings over 15 years of experience in investment banking, corporate finance, strategy, and mergers and acquisitions, with senior roles at Barclays, Bandhan Group, and most recently as CFO of Bandhan AMC. He holds an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad and a B.Tech. from IIT Kharagpur.

In his new role, Anchliya will lead Cashfree’s financial strategy, optimize operations, and support the company’s next growth phase. He will report to CEO and Co-founder Akash Sinha, who highlighted Anchliya’s expertise as vital for sustainable scaling and strengthening the company’s financial foundation. Anchliya succeeds outgoing CFO Vikas Guru, who will assist during the transition.

Founded in 2015, Cashfree Payments processes over $80 billion annually for more than 800,000 businesses. The company recently raised $53 million in funding led by KRAFTON and Apis Growth Fund II and secured key RBI licenses, positioning it for accelerated growth in India’s fintech sector. Anchliya’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as Cashfree aims to expand its leadership in digital payments.

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