A judge ruled that Google is not prohibited from entering into search agreements with companies like Apple. While Google cannot have exclusive search engine distribution contracts, it can still pay Apple to be a default search option on iPhones. The judge noted that banning Google's payments to partners could cause significant harm to distribution partners, related markets, and consumers. Google is permitted to make payments and offer other benefits to partners for preloading or placing Google Search, Chrome, and Gemini. The court also decided against forcing Google to sell its Chrome browser or Android operating system, deeming the government's request an overreach. However, Google will be required to share data with rival search engines regarding its search result ranking methods. This ruling comes after Google was found to have a search monopoly in August 2024. The Department of Justice had sought the divestiture of Chrome and potentially Android to address this monopoly. Google is reportedly appealing the decision, with the data-sharing requirement being a likely reason for the appeal.