A Nonprofit Search Engine Wants to Steward Google’s Chrome Browser for Free
Germany based search engine and browser nonprofit Ecosia has made an offer to take over the operations of Google Chrome. This comes as questions about the browser future have intensified following a Department of Justice ruling that Google search engine business is a monopoly. The DOJ is pushing for Google to sell Chrome. While Google plans to appeal the decision, other big tech companies have already expressed interest in acquiring the popular browser.
Ecosia proposal is fundamentally different from a traditional sale. Instead of a cash transaction, the plan suggests transforming Chrome into a foundation. Under this model, Ecosia would assume operational responsibility for the browser for a period of ten years. Google would retain ownership of the Chrome intellectual property. The unique aspect of the deal is the profit sharing structure. Ecosia has committed to devoting approximately sixty percent of Chrome profits toward climate and environmental projects over the next decade. The remaining forty percent of the profits would be returned to Google. With projections suggesting Chrome could generate a trillion dollars in revenue over ten years, this represents a significant financial return for Google without an upfront payment.
This stewardship approach builds on an existing relationship between the two companies. Google already powers the Ecosia search engine, and the two have a revenue sharing agreement in place. Handing operational control of Chrome to a nonprofit, rather than a for profit competitor, could be a strategic move for Google. It may offer a positive financial outcome through the profit sharing model while also improving public perception by aligning the browser with environmental and social goals. This could present a more favorable alternative for Google compared to a forced sale to another major tech firm.