Information about Segments and Geographic Areas (Stock-based Compensation and Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 1,820	$ 1,860	$ 5,832	$ 4,857
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	1,761	1,596	4,889	4,457
Operating Segments | Google
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	1,654	1,629	5,362	4,273
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	1,667	1,488	4,606	4,214
Operating Segments | Other Bets
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	130	199	355	486
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	94	104	283	239
Reconciling items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	36	32	115	98
Depreciation, amortization and impairment	$ 0	$ 4	$ 0	$ 4