EU Fines Google Over $1 Billion for Digital Markets Act Violations

The European Commission announced on Thursday that it has fined Google more than $1 billion for violations of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The penalties target Google's alleged "self-preferencing" of its own services, particularly in search results, and for practices that limited app developers' ability to guide consumers to cheaper offers outside the Google Play store.

The fine is divided into two parts: $522 million was imposed for Google's alleged self-preferencing of its own services in categories like shopping, hotels, and flights. An additional $488 million penalty addresses "anti-steering" practices, which the commission found prevented app developers from offering consumers more advantageous purchasing options off-platform.

Google has been given 60 days to comply with the DMA's requirements. The commission has instructed Google to treat third-party services fairly and non-discriminatorily in its search results. Furthermore, Google must now allow app developers, both technically and contractually, to freely promote and direct users to offers and sign-ups outside of Google Play.

This action marks the third significant fine levied by the EU under the DMA, signaling the bloc's intent to regulate the practices of large technology companies and foster greater competition within the digital marketplace.