Overview
- The European Commission launched a formal investigation on Dec. 9 into potential violations of EU competition rules by Google.
- The probe focuses on whether Google trained AI systems on online publisher material and user-generated content, including YouTube uploads, without adequate payment or an opt-out.
- Investigators will examine if Google imposed unfair terms on media and creators or gave itself privileged access to content that could disadvantage rival AI developers.
- The inquiry also covers AI-driven results in search that may reuse publisher content without appropriate compensation.
- The formal case enables Brussels to compel information and gather evidence, with possible remedies or enforcement actions if infringements are established.