Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, has unveiled a series of proposed modifications to its search results aimed at better featuring competitors, in an effort to address mounting concerns from European regulators regarding potential antitrust violations. Documents reviewed by Reuters highlight these initiatives.
This proposal comes on the heels of a formal charge by the European Commission against Google, which accused the tech giant of preferentially promoting its own services—such as Google Shopping, Google Hotels, and Google Flights—over competing platforms, in violation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
The DMA is a groundbreaking regulation designed to impose specific obligations and restrictions on large technology firms, with the goal of curbing their influence and fostering a more competitive environment for rivals as well as providing consumers with increased choices.
According to Google’s latest proposal, a selected vertical search service (VSS) that meets established objective and non-discriminatory criteria would appear in a dedicated box at the top of search results. This box would mirror the format, information, and features typically associated with Google’s offerings.
Moreover, this designated space would include three direct links to services such as hotels, airlines, and restaurants, as specified in the proposal.
Other vertical search services would be positioned lower in the search results and would not receive a dedicated box unless actively selected by users.
“While we disagree with the Commission’s initial findings, we are committed to engaging in constructive dialogue to reach a feasible resolution concerning these ongoing proceedings,” stated the documents submitted by both Google and the Commission to rival companies.
Feedback from competitors is expected at a meeting scheduled for July 8, convened by the Commission. Several unnamed rivals conveyed to Reuters their belief that Google’s proposed adjustments fall short of creating an equitable competitive landscape.
© Thomson Reuters 2025
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