Judge rules Google illegally monopolized adtech, opening door to potential breakup

A federal judge ruled that Google violated antitrust laws by maintaining monopoly power in the advertising technology market. The court will determine remedies, which could include breaking up Google's ad business or imposing behavioral restrictions to ensure fair competition. In a separate case, another judge found Google illegally monopolized the general internet search market but has yet to issue remedies. Google plans to appeal part of the ruling, asserting that its advertiser tools and acquisitions do not harm competition. The Department of Justice, along with eight states, filed suit against Google in 2023, alleging anti-competitive conduct through key acquisitions.