Alphabet's Google formally requested a judge to postpone an order compelling it to share data with competitors. This legal maneuver is part of the company's appeal against a 2024 court ruling that found Google held an illegal monopoly in the online search market.
The request follows the 2024 verdict by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta. Judge Mehta determined Google used unlawful methods to protect its dominance in online search. His proposed remedies ordered Google to share data with rivals, including generative AI firms, to create a more level competitive playing field.
Google argues that complying with the order before its appeal is resolved risks exposing valuable trade secrets. The company contends these secrets could not be recovered even if it ultimately wins the appeal.
The Department of Justice has until early February 2026 to respond to Google’s latest request.