Google Appeals US Search Monopoly Ruling and Requests Pause on Remedies

Google has initiated an appeal process following a federal court decision that found the company maintained an illegal monopoly in online search, according to court filings and company statements.

The appeal was submitted on January 16, 2026, in response to a ruling by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, who determined on August 5, 2024, that Google violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act. The company also asked the court to delay enforcement of the remedies ordered in December 2025 while the appeal is considered.

The court’s remedies included requirements for Google to renegotiate default search placement agreements with partners every year. In addition, Google was directed to share certain search data with competing firms as part of the measures.

Google stated that the ordered remedies could expose its trade secrets and create risks for user privacy. The company also said that these requirements might reduce incentives for innovation in its business operations.

What the numbers show

• August 5, 2024: Court ruled Google violated antitrust law
• December 2025: Remedies ordered, including annual renegotiations
• January 16, 2026: Google filed appeal and requested pause on remedies

The legal proceedings began when Judge Mehta concluded that Google’s practices in online search breached federal antitrust regulations. The court’s decision led to the imposition of specific measures designed to address the company’s market position.

The remedies require Google to revisit its agreements for default search placement on devices and platforms each year. The order also mandates the sharing of certain search-related data with other companies in the sector.

In its appeal, Google argued that the court’s requirements could compromise confidential business information. The company also raised concerns about the potential impact on user privacy and business innovation.

The case remains active as the appeal and the request to pause the remedies are under judicial review. The outcome will determine whether the court’s orders will be enforced while the appeal is pending.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.