Information about Segments and Geographic Areas (Stock-based Compensation and Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	$ 6,703	$ 5,203	$ 4,175
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	6,144	5,063	4,979
Operating Segments | Google
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	5,926	4,610	3,686
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	5,800	4,839	4,779
Operating Segments | Other Bets
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	647	475	338
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	340	203	147
Reconciling items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	130	118	151
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	$ 4	$ 21	$ 53