Google was found to have violated the EU's flagship tech regulation on two counts, receiving a record fine in doing so
After a prolonged investigation, the Commission has now announced that it will fine Google €890 million for two breaches of its flagship tech regulation, the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The landmark decision follows much deliberation, with the EU executive already coming to blows with the Trump administration for its proposals to enforce laws that would penalise major US tech companies. Thursday’s announcement, which comprises two separate infringements, is the largest total sanction yet issued under the EU’s Big Tech rulebook.
Specifically, Google was found to have given preferential treatment to its own search services in Google search results through prominent placements, enhanced visuals and filters. Such practices are deemed by the DMA to be unfair to competitors. The company also restricted third-party app developers from telling their own users about cheaper offers available outside Google’s Play Store.
A Commission spokesperson on Thursday played down the likelihood that the US would retaliate against the decision. Google now has 60 days to comply with the EU decision – meaning it must end all offending practices or risk daily penalties of up to 5% of its global turnover.
