Judge Orders Changes to Google's Ad Business but Spares Breakup
A federal judge ruled that Google must change its ad-tech business practices, but will not be forced to break up the division. The decision comes after years of antitrust lawsuits from the Justice Department targeting both Google’s search and advertising operations. In April 2025, a court found Google's ad-technology business operated as an illegal monopoly; this week’s ruling focused on remedies rather than structural changes like divestiture. Judge Leonie M. Brinkema ordered adjustments to favor competitors but did not specify the exact measures required at this time. The full details of her written decision will remain sealed for 14 days, pending redactions. Google has been using exclusive agreements and revenue-sharing deals with device manufacturers and mobile carriers to maintain its dominance in search ads. Google welcomed the outcome as a win, stating it preserves tools that help small businesses reach customers. The ruling reflects ongoing judicial scrutiny of Big Tech's market power but stops short of dismantling parts of Google’s business.
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Topics: ad-tech monopoly court ruling Google Justice Department