U.S. Seeks Breakup of Google’s Ad-Tech Products After Judge Finds Illegal Monopoly

U.S. DOJ Proposes Breakup of Google’s Ad-Tech Empire Following Court Ruling

Introduction

In a significant move, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed that Google divest its Ad Exchange (AdX) and DoubleClick for Publishers (DFP) platforms. This proposal follows a federal court ruling that found Google had unlawfully maintained monopolistic control over two critical online advertising markets.

Court Ruling on Google’s Monopolistic Practices

U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema concluded that Google “willfully acquired and maintained monopoly power” in the ad-exchange and publisher ad-server markets. The court found that Google engaged in “tying,” requiring customers to use one of its products to benefit from another, thereby stifling competition. This ruling marks a significant development in ongoing antitrust proceedings against Google.

DOJ’s Proposed Remedies

The DOJ’s proposal includes:

• Divestiture of Key Assets: Requiring Google to sell its AdX digital ad marketplace and DFP platform.
• Interim Measures: Implementing changes such as creating integration APIs, enabling data exports from DFP, and releasing critical auction code under open-source terms.
• Long-Term Restrictions: Seeking a 10-year ban on Google from operating a digital ad exchange.

These measures aim to restore fair competition in the ad-exchange and publisher ad-server markets. A trial to decide on enforcement is scheduled to begin on September 22, 2025.

Google’s Response

Google has opposed the proposed breakup, arguing that it would be technologically complex and disruptive to services. Instead, the company has suggested behavioral remedies, such as increased data sharing with rivals and removing unfair policies. Google maintains that these changes would address the concerns without the need for divestiture.

Implications for the Digital Advertising Industry

The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the digital advertising industry. If the court approves the proposed breakup, it would mark the largest forced divestiture of a U.S. company since the breakup of AT&T in the early 1980s. This move could reshape the competitive landscape, potentially benefiting smaller competitors and altering the dynamics of online advertising.AP News

Conclusion

The DOJ’s proposal to dismantle key components of Google’s advertising technology business represents a pivotal moment in antitrust enforcement. As the trial approaches, stakeholders across the digital advertising ecosystem are closely monitoring developments that could redefine market competition and regulatory approaches in the tech industry.