Overview
- The European Commission launched formal proceedings on November 13 to examine how Google's policy treats publisher pages that include commercial partner content.
- Investigators will assess whether Alphabet provides fair, reasonable and non‑discriminatory access to Google Search for news outlets and other publishers.
- Brussels will inform Alphabet of preliminary indications and possible measures, with the inquiry targeted to conclude within twelve months of opening.
- If violations are found, the DMA allows fines up to 10% of global turnover, rising to 20% for repeat infringements, and structural remedies in systemic cases.
- Google says the measures are intended to address attempts to manipulate search rankings rather than to discriminate against media content.