AB has opened an investigation into Google for competition violations.

EU Commission Launches Competition Investigation Against Google

The European Union (EU) Commission announced that it has initiated an investigation into Google for potential violations of competition law. The basis of the investigation is Google's use of publishers' online content without compensation and the requirement to obtain consent to use their content.

The statement mentioned that the allegations of Google's artificial intelligence system illegally feeding on the online content of third parties would be examined. EU Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera emphasized that while artificial intelligence presents innovative opportunities for individuals and businesses in Europe, this progress must be achieved without compromising on fundamental principles. Ribera stated, "We are investigating whether Google imposes unfair conditions on publishers and disadvantages competing artificial intelligence developers."

Content Producers Are Not Paid

Today, content producers are forced to grant Google permission to use their content for training artificial intelligence models; however, they do not receive any compensation in this process. Additionally, YouTube prohibits competitors of Google from using platform content for training their own artificial intelligence systems. This situation strengthens the claims that Google is given an unfair advantage in developing its own artificial intelligence models.

Major companies and digital platforms in Europe must comply with the EU's strict technology regulations. Although it is still unclear how long the investigation against Google will last, the company is also facing lawsuits for other competition violations such as discrimination against media organizations.

Digital platforms that violate EU rules are subject to significant fines.