Google has proposed additional changes to its search results in a last-ditch effort to avoid a massive EU antitrust fine, just days before a crucial meeting with regulators and competitors. The tech giant faces potential fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue for allegedly favoring its own services like Google Shopping, Google Hotels, and Google Flights over competitors, in violation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act.
Google’s latest proposal, dubbed “Option B,” would display a box with free links to suppliers (hotels, restaurants, airlines) below any vertical search service box, with Google organizing the information about these suppliers. This alternative approach aims to provide more opportunities for competitors while addressing EU concerns about fair competition. The company will meet with rivals and the European Commission during a July 7-8 workshop in Brussels to discuss the proposals. Google risks a fine that could reach billions of dollars if found in breach of the DMA, which sets rules for Big Tech to curb their power and give rivals more room to compete.