Google has proposed offering more options to other companies that sign contracts with it to be the automatic search engine. In a blog post, the company has proposed remedies that will offer more choices for consumers when browsing the web or using Android smartphones to assure that the US federal judge won’t need not do much to fix its search monopoly.. The proposal comes after a federal judge found Google guilty of antitrust violations earlier this year. Last month, the US government also suggested forcing Google to sell Chrome, the world’s most popular web browser.
Google, on the other hand, has suggested less restrictive measures, such as allowing more flexibility in exclusive agreements and offering consumers more choice in search engines on Android devices and web browsers. US Judge Amit P. Mehta is expected to decide on the appropriate remedy by next year and his ruling could significantly impact the internet landscape.
Google’s proposal to the US government
In the blog post, Google noted its proposal for remedies to end its search monopoly. The company wrote:
“Browser agreements:
Browser companies like Apple and Mozilla should continue to have the freedom to do deals with whatever search engine they think is best for their users. The Court accepted that browser companies “occasionally assess Google’s search quality relative to its rivals and find Google’s to be superior.” And for companies like Mozilla, these contracts generate vital revenue.
Our proposal allows browsers to continue to offer Google Search to their users and earn revenue from that partnership. But it also provides them with additional flexibility: It would allow for multiple default agreements across different platforms (e.g., a different default search engine for iPhones and iPads) and browsing modes, plus the ability to change their default search provider at least every 12 months (the court’s decision specifically referred to a 12 month agreement as “presumed reasonable” under antitrust law).
Android contracts:
Our proposal means device makers have additional flexibility in preloading multiple search engines, and preloading any Google app independently of preloading Search or Chrome. Again, this will give our partners additional flexibility and our rivals like Microsoft more chances to bid for placement.
Oversight and compliance:
Our proposal includes a robust mechanism to ensure we comply with the Court’s order without giving the Government extensive power over the design of your online experience.”
