Judge Rules Google Illegally Monopolized Search Market, Setting Stage for Potential Industry Shakeup

In a landmark decision that could reshape the internet landscape, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta has ruled that Google illegally maintained a monopoly over internet search. The verdict, delivered on Monday, marks a significant victory for the U.S. Justice Department in its most substantial antitrust case in 25 years.

“Google is a monopolist, and it has acted as one to maintain its monopoly.”
- Judge Mehta in his 277-page ruling:

The case, which began nearly four years ago, accused Google of exploiting its dominance to stifle competition and innovation. Central to the argument was Google’s practice of spending billions annually to ensure its search engine remained the default option on various devices and platforms.

Judge Mehta noted, “In 2021 alone, Google spent more than $26 billion to lock in those default agreements.”

According to the Associated Press, the decision could lead to substantial changes in how Google operates, potentially requiring the tech giant to dismantle parts of its internet empire or limit its ability to secure default search positions.

The ruling also vindicated the Justice Department’s efforts to curb Big Tech’s power, with…