Google’s Search and Play Store Modifications Don’t Fully Meet EU Regulations

The European Union (EU) has accused Google of violating the standards set by the new Digital Markets Act (DMA). Regulators claim that Google continues to favor its own services, such as Shopping, Hotels, and Flights, in search results, giving them an unfair advantage.

If Google is found guilty of breaching the DMA, it could face fines amounting to 10% of its global revenue. This is not the first time Google has faced scrutiny from European regulators.

In 2017, the European Commission imposed a substantial fine of €2.42 billion on the company for unfairly promoting its shopping services over those of its competitors. Since then, Google has remained under close observation, and the current accusations have reignited tensions between the tech giant and European authorities.

In a recent press release, the EU stated that Google’s alterations to Search and the Play Store still fail to align with the DMA’s standards. Over the past several months, regulators have investigated Google’s business practices and remain unconvinced that the company is adhering to the established rules.

The DMA was designed to provide smaller tech firms with a fair opportunity in the digital marketplace and to curb the dominance of large players like Google. However, the EU asserts that Google’s efforts to comply with these regulations have not been sufficient.

The Commission is particularly concerned that Google continues to give its own services an unfair edge, thereby hindering competition. They are also examining whether Google restricts app developers from informing users about better deals outside the Play Store.

According to the Commission, Google’s service fees for assisting app developers in acquiring new customers are excessive. In response, Google has rejected the allegations, asserting that its practices are intended to enhance user experience.

The company cautions that the Commission’s actions could compromise security and stifle innovation. Google has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the Commission to resolve the issues while maintaining user security and experience.