The European Commission has charged Google with violating the Digital Markets Act (DMA) by restricting app developers and favoring its own services in search results. Regulators claim Google prevents developers from directing users to better deals outside its Play Store and prioritizes services like Google Flights and Google Shopping over competitors. Apple was also ordered to open its iOS ecosystem to rival services. Google has pushed back, arguing that these regulations could harm consumers and businesses.
EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera emphasized that the goal is to ensure compliance with the DMA, which was designed to curb Big Tech’s dominance. Apple, which has already faced scrutiny for its App Store policies, called the decision “bad for our products and for our European users.” Google’s Oliver Bethell warned that the changes could negatively impact search quality and traffic to European businesses.
The crackdown comes amid rising tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has criticized EU antitrust actions as unfairly targeting American firms. The White House has previously suggested that such fines could be seen as economic attacks on the U.S. Despite this, EU regulators remain committed to enforcing the DMA, with potential fines reaching up to 10% of a company’s global revenue.
