Google is currently undergoing testing and making changes to its core platform services, including Search, the Chrome browser, and the Android operating system. These changes are being implemented in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulations, which are set to come into force in March. As a designated “gatekeeper,” Google has been given new rules on how it can operate its essential services. This article will delve into the specific changes being tested and their implications for the tech giant.
One of the key alterations Google is introducing is a new browser choice screen for Android devices during the initial setup. This change aims to provide users with the option to select their preferred browser, similar to the existing search engine choice screen. By offering this choice, Google aims to comply with the antitrust regulations imposed by the European Union. Additionally, the Chrome browser will also feature a similar choice screen for search engines, giving users the opportunity to choose an alternative to Google Search if desired. Both selection screens will be visible on devices purchased in the European Economic Area from March 6th onwards.
Google’s approach to displaying search results for shopping-related queries in Europe is also receiving changes. The company is looking to prioritize links to price comparison sites rather than individual businesses or products. This modification is a response to previous conflicts with EU regulators who fined Google €2.42 billion for giving an “illegal advantage” to its comparison shopping service through the dominance of its search engine. As part of this adjustment, the Google Flights widget, which displays flight times and prices, will be removed.
Google’s announced changes align with the DMA’s regulations on self-preferencing, which prohibits gatekeepers from favoring their own services over third-party alternatives. The company intends to ensure compliance by adjusting its services accordingly. The DMA also stipulates rules on interoperability for services like messaging apps and allows customers to remove preinstalled software from their devices. By implementing the changes mentioned above, Google aims to fulfill the requirements of the DMA.
In addition to the aforementioned adjustments, Google plans to provide European users with greater control over data sharing between its services such as YouTube, Chrome, and Google Play. This move is in line with the DMA regulations and emphasizes the company’s commitment to user data privacy and control. Google has previously made changes to its “Google Takeout” service, allowing users to download their data in compliance with the DMA’s data portability rules.
It is worth highlighting that Google is not the only major tech company affected by the DMA. Amazon, Apple, ByteDance, Meta, and Microsoft are also designated gatekeepers subject to the regulations. While Google intends to comply with the rules, its blog post expresses reservations about certain aspects of the DMA. Legal director Oliver Bethell states that while they support the DMA’s goals of consumer choice and interoperability, there are challenging trade-offs involved. This indicates that Google may not be entirely satisfied with the imposed regulations.
As the European Union’s DMA regulations approach, Google is proactively testing changes and implementing adjustments to its core services. By introducing browser choice screens, prioritizing price comparison sites, and addressing self-preferencing rules, Google aims to align with the DMA’s requirements. Additionally, the company is emphasizing user data control and complying with data portability rules. While Google supports some aspects of the DMA, there are evident reservations about the overall impact and associated trade-offs. As the tech industry adapts to evolving antitrust regulations, it remains to be seen how these changes will shape the future of Google and other gatekeepers in the European Union.
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