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Google Avoids Breakup as Judge Imposes Data Sharing, Bans Exclusive Deals

The decision steers competition policy toward behavioral fixes as generative AI reshapes search.

Overview

  • Google must provide select search-index and user‑interaction data to qualified competitors, with ads data excluded.
  • Exclusive default or preload contracts for Search, Chrome, Assistant and Gemini are barred, while non‑exclusive placement payments may continue, preserving Apple’s revenue stream.
  • The court rejected DOJ requests to force divestitures of Chrome or Android, calling the proposed breakup an overreach.
  • The remedies are set for six years, with the judge indicating elements may be adjusted after further input from the parties.
  • Google plans to appeal, Alphabet shares rose about 7–8% after hours, and separate ad‑tech remedies proceedings remain on the docket this month.