The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is reportedly planning to request that a judge compel Alphabet's Google to divest its Chrome internet browser, according to a Bloomberg report. This move follows an earlier ruling in August where Google was found to have unlawfully monopolized the search market.

In addition to Chrome, the DOJ is expected to push for remedies involving Google’s artificial intelligence operations and its Android smartphone platform. Chrome plays a pivotal role in how Google controls user interactions with the web, influencing both internet navigation and ad visibility. The browser, which integrates Google search and collects data crucial for Google's advertising business, commands around two-thirds of the global browser market.

While the DOJ declined to comment on the report, Google issued a statement through Lee-Anne Mulholland, its vice president of regulatory affairs, describing the DOJ's stance as a "radical agenda" that overreaches the legal scope of the case and could ultimately harm consumers.

This initiative would mark one of the most forceful attempts by the Biden administration to address perceived monopolistic practices by major tech companies. However, the political landscape could significantly impact the case's trajectory, especially if Donald Trump regains the presidency. During his prior term, Trump oscillated between threats of prosecuting Google over alleged bias and questioning whether breaking up the company was appropriate.

U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta is set to hear trial arguments regarding potential remedies in April 2025, with a final ruling expected by August 2025. Prosecutors have proposed a range of measures, from ending exclusive deals—such as Google’s multi-billion-dollar payments to Apple to remain the default search engine on iOS devices—to splitting off parts of Google's business, including Chrome and Android.

Chrome’s substantial market share makes it a critical revenue driver for Google. The browser's integration with Google accounts enables the company to enhance its ad targeting capabilities through user data. However, Google has maintained that its search engine’s dominance stems from its quality, citing competition from platforms like Amazon and other search engines that users can set as defaults.

The DOJ may ultimately reserve the decision on whether to pursue a Chrome divestiture, opting to evaluate the effectiveness of other remedies in fostering a more competitive market.