Google Keeps Chrome; US Judge Mandates AI Data Sharing

US court has ruled that Google may keep its Chrome browser and Android system intact but must end exclusive search deals and open parts of its search data to AI browser competitors. The decision stems from a five-year antitrust case by the Justice Department, which accused Google of using high-fee default agreements with device makers to maintain its search monopoly. The ruling prohibits new exclusivity deals and forces Google to share search index and user interaction data with rival AI browsers. Investors reacted positively, sending Alphabet shares up over 6% and Apple up 4%. However, Google’s long-held strategy of locking in default settings ends. Data sharing obligations present both technical and privacy risks. The judge noted the rapid rise of generative AI, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, reshaping search markets, and ensured fair exposure for third-party AI browser services. Google plans to appeal. The scope and rules for data sharing will shape future competition in AI browsers and digital advertising.