In a significant development in the ongoing antitrust case against Google, the tech giant has proposed to loosen its search engine agreements with major partners like Apple. This move comes as a response to a US ruling that found Google unlawfully dominates the online search market. The proposal, announced on Friday, suggests making these agreements non-exclusive, allowing more flexibility for device manufacturers and browser developers.

Google's proposal is seen as a counter to the US Department of Justice's (DOJ) more drastic suggestion that Google should sell its Chrome browser. The DOJ argues that such a sale would open up the browser market and reduce Google's dominance. However, Google has labeled this suggestion as a drastic intervention in the search market.

The company's proposal aims to address the antitrust concerns by focusing on its distribution agreements, which currently give Google a significant advantage over its rivals. These agreements often result in Google's search engine being pre-loaded on most devices in the US, a situation that the DOJ claims stifles competition.

Google's proposed changes would allow browser developers to revisit their default search engine choice annually and would unbundle Google's Play Store from Chrome and search for Android manufacturers. Despite these concessions, Google intends to maintain its revenue-sharing agreements, which are crucial for independent browser developers like Mozilla.

The antitrust case, presided over by US District Judge Amit Mehta, is set to enter a "remedies" phase, where both Google and the DOJ will present their arguments. The DOJ, along with a coalition of states, is pushing for wide-ranging remedies, including potentially forcing Google to sell off its Android mobile operating system.

The case highlights the broader implications of Google's market dominance, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. Prosecutors argue that Google's control over search data hampers competitors' ability to innovate and improve their products.

As the case progresses, Google plans to appeal the ruling, potentially delaying a final decision. The outcome of this case could have significant ramifications for the tech industry, particularly in how tech giants manage their partnerships and market strategies.