Google submitted its proposed remedies in response to a U.S. District Court ruling that found the tech giant held an unlawful monopoly in online search. While Google expressed disagreement with the court’s decision and plans to appeal, the legal process requires both parties to propose remedies ahead of the April 2025 hearing on the matter.

The proposed remedies include granting greater flexibility in default browser agreements, unbundling key Google apps from Android contracts, and implementing a compliance mechanism to monitor adherence.

Default Browser Agreements

One of the primary focuses of Google’s proposed remedies is its agreements with browser developers, which the court identified as giving the company a significant advantage over rivals. These agreements typically ensure Google Search is the default option on many devices, contributing to its dominant position in the market.

In its proposal, Google outlined steps to make these agreements more flexible. For instance, developers would be able to enter into multiple default search engine agreements across different platforms. This means that a company could negotiate different search engine agreements across platforms. Furthermore, Google proposed giving developers the ability to revisit the agreements every 12 months. 

Unbundling Google Apps from Android Contracts

Google’s proposed remedies also address its contracts with Android device manufacturers, which the court found to be restrictive and anti-competitive. Currently, these agreements require manufacturers to pre-install Google apps, such as Search and Chrome, as a condition for accessing the Google Play Store, a vital component for Android users. This arrangement has been criticized for stifling competition by limiting rival apps’ opportunities to gain visibility on Android devices.

In Google’s proposal, device makers would no longer be required to bundle Google Search or Chrome with the Google Play Store.

Oversight and Compliance

As part of its proposed remedies, Google included a compliance and oversight mechanism. The company emphasized the importance of balancing regulatory requirements with the need to avoid heavy-handed oversight that could hinder innovation.

Google’s proposal includes a “robust mechanism” for monitoring compliance, which would allow regulators to verify that the company is implementing the proposed changes. 

Next Step in Google’s Search Antitrust Case

With its proposed remedies filed, the next step in Google’s search antitrust case is the remedies hearing scheduled for April 2025.

Google continues to face legal scrutiny on multiple fronts, including the search antitrust case and other lawsuits. Notably, the company is also grappling with allegations related to its “Incognito” browsing mode, with claims that Google tracks users’ activity despite apparent promises of private browsing. Take the quiz to see if you qualify to join the Google Incognito lawsuit.