Judge Rules Google Can Keep Chrome but Must Stop Exclusive Search Deals

A federal judge has ruled that Google can continue to bundle its Chrome web browser with its other products, but the tech giant must stop its exclusive search deals with smartphone makers and browsers. The ruling comes as part of a broader antitrust lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice and several state attorneys general. The lawsuit alleges that Google's practices in the search and advertising markets are anticompetitive and harm consumers. While the judge ruled in favor of Google on the Chrome issue, the decision requires the company to end its exclusive search agreements, which have been a key part of Google's dominance in the search market. The ruling is seen as a partial victory for Google, as it allows the company to maintain its bundling practices, which have been a point of contention in the case. The decision is a significant development in the ongoing battle between Google and antitrust regulators, and it is likely to have implications for the tech industry as a whole.