A federal judge rejected the Department of Justice's attempt to force Google to sell its Ad X ad exchange. Judge Leonie Brinkema ruled that Google can retain Ad X but must implement behavioral remedies to open its ad tech tools to rivals. This decision follows last year's ruling that Google illegally monopolized two ad tech markets.

The DOJ and eight states sued Google in 2023, alleging the company used its monopoly position to charge higher fees. The government asserted Google held an 87 percent share of the ad-sales tech market. Google expressed relief, stating the court rejected breaking apart tools that help small businesses grow.

Publishers use Ad X to sell unused ad space in real time, paying Google a 20 percent fee. The ruling contrasts with previous actions, including a $3.5 billion EU fine last September for preferential treatment and a separate decision that Google would not have to sell Chrome. The judge's decision was issued under seal to allow parties time to review necessary reactions.