US Justice Department Investigates Google’s AI Strategy Amid Antitrust Trial

The U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) is investigating Google's AI strategy as part of the remedies phase in an ongoing antitrust trial. This phase follows a ruling by Judge Amit Mehta, who deemed Google an illegal monopolist. The DOJ is seeking further discovery to understand Google's current business practices, particularly in light of new generative AI search products being developed by Google and its competitors, including Microsoft. The trial has previously examined Google's agreements, such as its longstanding deal with Apple for search services. The remedies phase aims to propose solutions to restore competition in the search market. Judge Mehta has indicated a preference for the arguments to take place in the first half of the following year, with a new scheduling proposal expected soon. This investigation comes amid a broader context of legal challenges facing Google, including a recent antitrust lawsuit from Yelp, which claims that Google is maintaining its monopoly in local search by favoring its own services. Despite these legal hurdles, some analysts suggest that Google may avoid significant penalties in two out of three antitrust cases it is currently facing. The DOJ's inquiry into Google's AI strategy is crucial as it could influence the proposed remedies and the future competitive landscape of the search market. The outcome of this investigation and the subsequent legal proceedings will have significant implications for both Google and its competitors. As the DOJ continues its investigation, the tech industry is closely watching how these developments will unfold, particularly in relation to the evolving role of AI in search technology. The implications of these legal battles extend beyond Google, potentially reshaping the dynamics of competition in the tech sector.