History

Founding and Early Development

Google was founded in 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Ph.D. students at Stanford University. They developed a search algorithm named "BackRub" in 1996, which later evolved into Google. The company was officially incorporated on September 4, 1998, in a garage in Menlo Park, California. Google's mission was to "organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful."

Growth and Expansion

In March 1999, Google moved its offices to Palo Alto, California, and began selling advertisements associated with search keywords. In June 2000, Google became the default search engine provider for Yahoo!, significantly increasing its user base. By 2003, the company relocated to the Googleplex in Mountain View, California. In 2004, Google went public with an initial public offering (IPO) that raised $1.67 billion, giving it a market capitalization of $23 billion.

Alphabet Inc. Formation

In 2015, Google underwent a major corporate restructuring, creating Alphabet Inc. as its parent company. This move aimed to make the core Google business "cleaner and more accountable" while allowing greater autonomy to group companies operating in businesses other than internet services. Larry Page and Sergey Brin transitioned to leadership roles within Alphabet, with Sundar Pichai becoming the CEO of Google.

Products and Services

Search Engine

Google Search is the company's flagship product, handling over 90% of global search queries. It utilizes complex algorithms to provide relevant search results and has undergone numerous updates to improve accuracy and user experience.

Advertising

Google's primary source of revenue is its advertising services, including Google Ads and AdSense. These platforms allow businesses to display ads across Google's network, utilizing user data to target specific audiences.

Cloud Computing

Google Cloud offers a suite of cloud computing services, including data storage, analytics, and machine learning tools. It competes with other major cloud providers like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure.

Hardware

Google has developed various hardware products, including the Pixel smartphone series, Google Nest smart home devices, and the Chromecast streaming device.

Controversies and Legal Issues

Antitrust and Monopoly Concerns

Google has faced multiple antitrust investigations and lawsuits. In August 2024, a U.S. district court found Google guilty of violating antitrust laws by maintaining an illegal monopoly over internet search engines. The company has appealed the ruling.

Privacy Concerns

Google has been criticized for its data collection practices. In 2019, the French data regulator CNIL imposed a €50 million fine on Google for breaching the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by failing to sufficiently inform users about data collection methods.

Workplace Issues

In 2018, over 20,000 Google employees staged a global walkout to protest the company's handling of sexual harassment complaints. The protests were sparked by reports that Google had provided large exit packages to executives accused of misconduct.

Financial Performance

As of July 18, 2025, Alphabet Inc. (Google's parent company) has a market capitalization of approximately $1.87 trillion. The company's stock (GOOGL) is trading at $183.58 per share, with a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 16.89 and earnings per share (EPS) of $9.15.

Technological Innovations

Artificial Intelligence

Google has invested heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) research through initiatives like Google Brain and the acquisition of DeepMind. These efforts have led to advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and AI applications across various products.

Quantum Computing

In December 2024, Google unveiled a new quantum computing chip named "Willow," which significantly reduces error rates and can correct them in real time. This breakthrough has potential applications in science, medicine, and finance.

Corporate Culture

Google is known for its open and innovative corporate culture, emphasizing employee autonomy and creativity. The company offers various perks to employees, including free meals, on-site fitness centers, and flexible work arrangements. However, it has also faced criticism for handling internal issues, such as diversity and inclusion.

Future Outlook

Google continues to expand its presence in emerging technologies, including AI, quantum computing, and autonomous vehicles through its subsidiary Waymo. The company faces ongoing regulatory scrutiny and competition but remains a dominant force in the technology industry.