INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
EU Commission: Google and Apple recalled for violation of the rules of the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The European Commission has sent two preliminary findings to Alphabet, accusing it of not complying with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) for Google Search and Google Play services, for which it has been designated as a gatekeeper.
The complaints against Alphabet are summarized below:
1. Self-preference in Google Search resultsThe Commission considers that Alphabet favours its own services in Google's search results over those of its competitors. Despite the changes made by the company, the survey and feedback collected from third parties show that Alphabet's services (shopping, hotels, transportation, financial and sports results) enjoy preferential treatment. Notably, Alphabet's internal services are placed at the top of search results or in dedicated spaces with a more appealing interface than those of competitors. This practice violates the DMA, which requires gatekeepers to ensure fair, transparent and non-discriminatory treatment.
2. Developer restrictions on Google PlayAlphabet is accused of preventing app developers from freely directing users to better offers outside of Google Play. The evidence gathered indicates that the company technically hinders this possibility, limiting competition and maintaining control over transactions. In addition, Alphabet would impose excessive fees for an extended period, even after the customer has been acquired, going beyond what is justifiable for the operation of the platform.
Following these assessments, the Commission notified Alphabet of the possible violation of the DMA. Now the company has the opportunity to review the documents and respond in writing before a final decision is made. If the allegations are confirmed, Alphabet may be subject to sanctions and corrective measures.
In parallel with the Alphabet issue, the EU Commission has adopted new measures against Apple, forcing it to make iOS more open to foster competition in the digital market.
Specifically, Apple will:
The complaints against Alphabet are summarized below:
1. Self-preference in Google Search resultsThe Commission considers that Alphabet favours its own services in Google's search results over those of its competitors. Despite the changes made by the company, the survey and feedback collected from third parties show that Alphabet's services (shopping, hotels, transportation, financial and sports results) enjoy preferential treatment. Notably, Alphabet's internal services are placed at the top of search results or in dedicated spaces with a more appealing interface than those of competitors. This practice violates the DMA, which requires gatekeepers to ensure fair, transparent and non-discriminatory treatment.
2. Developer restrictions on Google PlayAlphabet is accused of preventing app developers from freely directing users to better offers outside of Google Play. The evidence gathered indicates that the company technically hinders this possibility, limiting competition and maintaining control over transactions. In addition, Alphabet would impose excessive fees for an extended period, even after the customer has been acquired, going beyond what is justifiable for the operation of the platform.
Following these assessments, the Commission notified Alphabet of the possible violation of the DMA. Now the company has the opportunity to review the documents and respond in writing before a final decision is made. If the allegations are confirmed, Alphabet may be subject to sanctions and corrective measures.
In parallel with the Alphabet issue, the EU Commission has adopted new measures against Apple, forcing it to make iOS more open to foster competition in the digital market.
Specifically, Apple will:
- Allow third-party apps and devices to access the iOS notification system.
- Open access to advanced connectivity features, such as automatic pairing and fast file transfer.
- Allow alternatives to AirDrop and AirPlay, without restrictions imposed by iOS.
- Ensure that new APIs and frameworks are available to third parties at the same time as they are integrated into Apple products.
