Could a Google Breakup Change the Search Landscape? Insights from the DOJ

Could a Google Breakup Change the Search Landscape? Insights from the DOJ

The Current Search Landscape: Google’s Dominance and Its Implications

Google controls over 90% of global search, shaping how most people experience the internet. Its dominance isn’t just about search—it’s about the interconnected services that keep users within its system. From maps to email to advertising platforms, Google’s ecosystem ensures users rarely need to look elsewhere. This level of control makes it tough for competitors to gain ground. Businesses want visibility on Google because that’s where the majority of online attention exists. The downside? Innovation from rivals can’t compete when Google owns nearly all the spotlight. Consumers might not realize the lack of real options—they rely on what’s convenient and familiar. This monopoly-like grip influences how information is served, advertised, and consumed daily. It’s not just competition that suffers; user choice shrinks, too. How much freedom do you really have when one company decides so much of your online experience?