Google rolls out changes for users as EU tech rule draws closer

Google on Tuesday detailed changes to search results and introduced new tools for app developers to advertise their products on third-party apps and rival app stores.

These adjustments are part of Google’s efforts to comply with the Digital Markets Act, a landmark EU tech regulation aimed at curbing the power of major tech companies like Google, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, and ByteDance (owner of TikTok).

The DMA requires these companies, designated as gatekeepers controlling access for millions of users and businesses, to be compliant by March 7.

Google had previously announced some of these changes specific to European users in January and has since made adjustments based on feedback from EU antitrust regulators, users, and app developers.

Changes to search results will result in large intermediaries and aggregators receiving more traffic, while entities like hotels, airlines, merchants, and restaurants will experience reduced visibility, as stated in a Google blog post.

Additionally, users will now be prompted to give consent for Google to share their data across various Google products and services.

App developers will gain the ability to utilize alternative billing systems, not limited to Google Play’s billing. A new program will enable developers to lead European users directly from the app to promote their products.

To further comply with the DMA, Google plans to launch data portability software in Europe, making it simpler for developers to transfer user data to a third-party app or service.