Google offers alternatives to the sale of Chrome and Android

The US Department of Justice recently requested Google will sell Chrome and make significant changes to Android (or sell it as an alternative) to combat Google’s monopoly in online search. Google is obviously not happy with such a proposal, as these sweeping changes would fundamentally alter the technology landscape, for better or worse. Google now offers solutions that are still comprehensive and resolve issues, but are not as thorough as the DOJ’s proposals.

Google intends to appeal the court’s ruling regarding Search’s monopoly, but the legal process requires the company to file proposed appeals that best address the ruling. Google does it, and it’s broadly describing the remedies so that people understand.

As part of the remedies, Google agrees that browser companies like Apple and Mozilla should continue to be free to run the search engine they believe is best for their users. He suggests a proposal that gives them additional flexibility across different platforms and browsing modes. For example, Apple might have a different default search engine for iPhones and iPads. This also suggests that browser companies can change their default search engine every 12 months.

Additionally, Google suggests that device makers may have additional flexibility to preload multiple search engines and preload any Google app independent of Search or Chrome preloading. Google says this will give phone makers additional flexibility and rivals like Microsoft more chances to bid for placement.

When you decode the business and legal jargon here, the proposal essentially suggests that phone makers would be free to replace existing Google apps with alternatives from competitors, whichever side kicks in the most money. Either way, you would end up with an overcharge on your phone, and most likely those with a stronger monetization strategy, probably to the disadvantage of end users.

Google also offers a mechanism to ensure compliance with the Court’s order without giving the U.S. government sweeping power over the online user experience.

Google emphasizes that it is not proposing these changes lightly, and that they impact how it does business with its partners and how it impacts consumers. However, these remedies would better respond to the Court’s conclusions without endangering privacy and security.