Brussels fines Google €890 million under EU DMA
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European Union regulators have imposed an €890 million (about $1 billion) fine on Google for allegedly favoring its own services in search results, marking the first major enforcement action against the company under the bloc’s Digital Markets Act. The European Commission said on Thursday that Google’s shopping, hotel and other proprietary services were displayed more prominently than comparable third-party offerings. Regulators also found Google breached anti-steering rules by preventing app developers using Google Play from freely promoting cheaper alternatives and concluding contracts via external channels, including third-party app stores. The Commission ordered Google to ensure fair, non-discriminatory treatment of rivals and greater developer freedom.
More context
Timeline
- 2022 EU Digital Markets Act enters into force
- 2023 DMA obligations begin applying to gatekeepers
- Early 2024 Commission investigates Google search practices
- Early 2024 Regulators assess Google Play steering compliance
- Today EU announces €890 million fine against Google
- Today Commission cites discriminatory search result prominence
- Today EU orders non-discriminatory treatment for third-party services
- Today Google required to allow broader developer contracting
Why it matters
This fine on Google impacts your online experience. If you use Google for searches, you might notice more diverse results. For app developers, it could mean more freedom to promote and sell their products. Check your favorite apps for potential changes or deals.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
