Google Makes New Proposal to Stave Off EU Antitrust Fine Document Shows
Under pressure and just days before a potentially costly EU antitrust showdown, Google is scrambling to revamp its search results. A leaked document reveals the tech giant’s latest attempt to appease regulators and silence critics, suggesting a major shake-up is imminent. The question is: will these eleventh-hour changes be enough to avoid another hefty fine?
Under mounting pressure, the US tech behemoth faces a gauntlet thrown down by the European Union in March: antitrust charges. Accusations fly that the company’s golden touch unfairly elevates its own services – Google Shopping, Hotels, and Flights – leaving rivals struggling in its long shadow.
In a pivotal Brussels workshop slated for July 7-8, Alphabet’s company will face off against rivals and the European Commission to debate its proposals, a showdown promising to reshape the landscape.
Google’s facing a digital revolution, courtesy of the EU’s Digital Markets Act. Think of it as a Big Tech rulebook – outlining what giants can and can’t do. The goal? To unshackle innovation, level the playing field for smaller companies, and hand more power (and choices) back to you, the consumer.
Imagine a Google search page, but instead of the usual blue links, a vibrant box pops out at the top. That’s what Google proposed last week: a “Vertical Search Service” (VSS) – a gateway to specialized search engines and a treasure trove of options for hotels, flights, restaurants, and transportation, all conveniently located in one place.
A Google document, obtained by Reuters and circulated by the Commission, reveals “Option B” a counter-proposal poised to eclipse last week’s offer.
The document revealed a surprising twist: “Option B” would trigger a double feature. Whenever a VSS box appeared, Google would simultaneously spotlight a complementary box, showcasingfreelinks to alternative suppliers – a potential game-changer for competition.
Beneath the curated world of VSS, Google unveils a dedicated space for the travel industry’s backbone: hotels, restaurants, airlines, and a constellation of other travel services. Imagine a meticulously organized directory, where vital supplier information is readily accessible, bridging the gap between traveler and service provider.
The document hinted at Option B: a landscape of opportunities for suppliers, carefully avoiding the confines of a “Google VSS” characterization.
“We’ve made hundreds of alterations to our products as part of our DMA compliance,” a Google spokesperson said.
“We’re committed to compliance, but fear the DMA’s real-world impact: a downgrade in online experiences for Europeans.”
Google’s DMA defiance could trigger a financial earthquake, potentially costing them a tenth of their worldwide earnings.
© Thomson Reuters 2025
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