the online search market. The court barred Google from entering into exclusive contracts for search distribution but allowed it to continue paying partners like Apple to remain the default search engine. Google must now share portions of its search data with competitors such as Microsoft, DuckDuckGo, and emerging AI companies, helping them build stronger search and AI platforms. Impact on Google and Apple Google avoids the forced sale of Chrome and Android, which it argued would harm consumers. Apple, which earns around $20 billion annually for making Google the default search engine on iPhones, can still receive payments under the ruling. However, Apple will now have to promote alternative search engines and allow more flexibility in default settings. Market Reaction Alphabet’s stock jumped 8.7% in after-hours trading, while Apple shares rose over 4% following the ruling. Analysts described the decision as “better than feared” for Google, since it avoided the most severe penalties. Concerns & Criticism Google welcomed the decision but raised concerns about user privacy and data-sharing requirements. The Justice Department (DOJ) said the ruling restores competition but admitted it fell short of their strongest demands. Rivals like DuckDuckGo criticized the remedies as too weak, arguing Google still retains unfair advantages. Future Implications This ruling sets a new precedent for regulating Big Tech, potentially influencing future cases against Amazon, Apple, and Meta. Judge Mehta left the door open for stricter remedies if competition is not restored, warning Google’s payment model could still be revisited. What’s Next? Both parties must submit a remedy proposal by September 10. Meanwhile, Google faces another DOJ case over its dominance in online advertising, which could result in further penalties or even a breakup of its ad business. This landmark case underscores the growing global push to rein in tech giants and ensure fairer competition in search, AI, and digital advertising.