The European Commission wants Google to share search engine data with competitors
Source: Engadget
Background
The European Commission is using the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to address Google’s dominant position in online search. Since March 2024, Google has been required to comply with the DMA and announced plans for changes in line with the legislation. A year later, the Commission brought preliminary charges against Google, alleging that its Search and Play Store services had not fulfilled competition obligations.
Commission proposal
The Commission has proposed new measures that would require Google to allow third‑party online search engines to access its “treasure trove” of search‑engine data. Under the proposal, Google must share data points such as ranking, query, click and view data on fair, reasonable and non‑discriminatory (FRAND) terms.
“Data is a key input for online search and for developing new services, including AI,” said Teresa Ribera, the Commission’s executive vice‑president for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition. “Access to this data should not be restricted in ways that could harm competition. In fast‑moving markets, small changes can quickly have a big impact. We will not allow practices that risk closing markets or limiting choice.”
Google’s response and next steps
Google has offered possible adjustments to how search results are displayed, but the regulator appears poised to push for more robust changes to Google’s search business.
- The Commission is accepting comments on the proposed measures until May 1.
- Google’s legal team is expected to submit extensive feedback.
- A final, binding decision on Google’s next steps is due by July 27, indicating that a period of back‑and‑forth between the parties is likely.