Google is in discussions with European Union regulators over steps to address competition concerns that led to €890 million in fines in July, as authorities assess whether the company’s changes meet their requirements.
The European Commission fined Google €460 million over concerns that it favoured its own services in shopping, hotel, transport and sports search results. A further €430 million penalty was imposed over restrictions affecting app developers on Google Play.
Speaking at a press briefing on October 14, Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier confirmed that discussions with Google were ongoing, but declined to predict their outcome.
Google has begun implementing changes to its search results and adjusting service fees for app developers. However, the Commission said it would conduct a thorough assessment of the measures and consult market participants and other third parties before reaching a conclusion.
The outcome could determine whether Google’s changes adequately address the EU’s competition concerns or whether additional measures will be necessary.
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