DOJ accuses Google of leveraging AI to maintain search dominance as antitrust trial commences

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has called for stringent measures to prevent Alphabet’s Google from leveraging its artificial intelligence products to strengthen its dominance in online search. The statement was made on Monday as the historic antitrust trial against Google commenced, a case that could potentially reshape the internet landscape by challenging Google’s position as the primary gateway to online information.

The DOJ is seeking remedies that include requiring Google to divest its Chrome browser and other assets to address its monopoly in online search. Prosecutors have likened this lawsuit to landmark antitrust cases such as the breakup of AT&T and Standard Oil.

During the opening arguments, DOJ attorney David Dahlquist emphasized the need to hold monopolistic entities accountable for violating antitrust laws, sending a clear message to Google and other industry players. The DOJ, along with a coalition of state attorneys general, is advocating for solutions that will foster competition, especially in light of the growing overlap between traditional search and generative AI products like ChatGPT.

Dahlquist highlighted the importance of a forward-looking approach in crafting remedies, noting that Google’s search monopoly enhances its AI capabilities, which in turn reinforce its search dominance. Documents presented at trial reveal a lucrative agreement between Google and Samsung, where Google pays a substantial monthly sum to have its Gemini AI app pre-installed on Samsung devices—a deal that could extend into 2028.

While the financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, Dahlquist described the payments as significant. The trial marks a pivotal moment in antitrust enforcement, with far-reaching implications for competition in the evolving digital and AI-driven landscape.