Bloomberg Daybreak: US Edition Instant Reaction: Google Doesn't Have to Sell Chrome in Antitrust Ruling
Sep 2, 2025
Mandeep Singh, Global Head of Technology Research at Bloomberg Intelligence, breaks down the landmark antitrust ruling regarding Google. He explores how the decision allows Google to retain its Chrome browser while impacting its search data sharing with competitors. The conversation touches on potential stock price implications for Alphabet and how this ruling could set a precedent for future tech giants like Meta and Amazon. The discussion also highlights competitive dynamics in the evolving search market, especially with the rise of generative AI.
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No Chrome Divestiture, But Exclusivity Banned
- Judge Amit Mehta ruled Google need not sell Chrome despite finding an illegal search monopoly.
- The judge instead barred exclusive search contracts, altering distribution rather than forcing a break-up.
AI Changed The Search Landscape
- Generative AI has expanded the search market and reduced Google's absolute dominance.
- Chrome remains a critical distribution asset that amplifies Google's AI advantage without divestiture.
Payments Allowed; Exclusivity Restricted
- The ruling allows Google to keep making large placement payments but removes exclusivity.
- The judge worried banning payments outright would harm the broader device and app ecosystem.