Available for purchase: one highly popular browser. As the remedies phase of the Google Search trial intensifies, two things have become evident. The US government is keen on compelling Google to divest Chrome, and numerous companies are showing interest in acquiring it. But what does ownership of the world’s most widely used browser entail? And what would the price tag look like?
In this episode of The Vergecast, hosts Nilay, David, and The Verge’s Jake Kastrenakes explore potential buyers for Chrome. However, first, we delve into some significant news. We are excited to announce that we won the Webby Award for Best Technology Podcast! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who cast their votes — we faced strong competition, and we’re overjoyed that you chose us. Additionally, we share some updates on Party Speaker Capitalism, discuss our experiences trying to buy a Switch 2, and unpack some perplexing new information about tariffs. Seriously, for one gadget, Michael — what could it possibly cost, ten dollars?
Subsequently, we move to the courtroom, where both Google and Meta are grappling with significant antitrust challenges. We talk about the implications of the trial for AI companies and search rivals, and why there might not be as many viable buyers for Chrome as one might assume. In fact, there could be just one sensible option. (Interestingly, we didn’t even discuss Yahoo, which expressed interest right after we wrapped up recording.) We also cover Instagram co-founder Kevin Systrom’s impactful testimony in the Meta trial, and how it could adversely affect Meta’s defense.
If you’re interested in learning more about the topics we cover in this episode, here are some links to get you started, beginning with gadget and tariff news:
And now, onto the lightning round:
