The Department of Justice’s proposed remedies in the U.S. v. Google search case could have devastating consequences for small and independent browsers like Mozilla Firefox, which are essential for keeping the web open and innovative. By banning all search payments to browser developers, the proposed remedies threaten to strengthen the dominance of big players like Google, Apple, and Microsoft, while stifling competition. The DOJ’s focus on search agreements overlooks the vital role of independent browsers in driving privacy, innovation, and consumer choice. Mozilla warns that if they lose access to search revenue, it could jeopardize their ability to maintain their browser engine, Gecko, and ultimately weaken browser competition and the open web.Mozilla urges regulators to recognize the critical role of independent browsers and take action to protect competition, innovation, and the public interest in the digital landscape. The future of the open internet relies on ensuring a fair and competitive environment where consumers have real choices and small browsers can thrive.
https://blog.mozilla.org/en/mozilla/internet-policy/proposed-remedies-browsers/