Google Wins Antitrust Case But Faces New Rules on Search Competition

A U.S. judge has rejected the government’s push to break up Google’s business. The ruling came on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. The case focused on Google’s dominance in online search and web browsing.

The court refused the request to force Google to sell its Chrome browser. However, the judge ordered changes to ensure fair competition in search. This ruling follows a previous finding that Google held illegal monopolies.

Google Keeps Chrome, But Must Share Search Tools

Judge Amit Mehta said Google does not have to sell Chrome. He called such a move “highly risky” and said it could hurt other tech firms. The U.S. government had argued that Chrome was a key part of Google’s power.

The judge did agree Google had abused its dominance. The company paid billions to phone makers like Apple and Samsung. These deals made Google the default search on most devices.

But banning those deals was also off the table. The judge said it would cause “crippling harm” to partners and users. Instead, Google must open some of its tools to competitors.

These include its search index and user interaction data. Rivals can use this data to improve their search engines. Google must also offer search services to other firms for five years.

What This Means for Tech and AI Competition

The decision is seen as a big win for Google and Apple. After the ruling, Alphabet shares jumped 7.5%. Apple stock rose more than 3%. Experts say this eases pressure on both companies.

Still, Google will face strict monitoring. A technical committee will oversee the changes. The judge also blocked Google from using exclusive deals in the AI space.

This is meant to stop Google from dominating future tech as it did in search. The court ruling applies to search, browsers, and generative AI tools.

The case is part of a wider crackdown on Big Tech. The U.S. government has five active antitrust cases. These target firms like Meta, Amazon, and Apple.

Google also faces a second case over its ad tech business. A Virginia judge has already ruled that the ad division is a monopoly too.

This ruling does not break up Google, but it sets new rules. The focus now shifts to how the company adjusts its strategy. Google antitrust battles are far from over.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: Why did the court reject the sale of Chrome?

The judge said selling Chrome would be too risky. It could harm other tech firms and users.

Q2: What changes must Google make now?

Google must share search data and tools with rivals. It must also offer services to competitors for five years.

Q3: How did Google and Apple benefit?

Stock prices rose for both firms. The ruling removed a major threat to their business deals.

Q4: Will this stop Google from leading in AI?

The ruling blocks exclusive AI deals. This prevents Google from repeating its search dominance in AI.

Q5: Are there more cases against Google?

Yes, Google faces another case about its ad business. It’s also part of a wider push against Big Tech.