The European Commission’s latest announcement on Google Search, Android, and Play will further restrict European businesses and consumers, hindering innovation, weakening security, and degrading product quality.
The commission’s findings aim to make changes to how search results are displayed, making it harder for users to find what they need and reducing traffic to European businesses. This decision is misguided, as it already costs businesses up to 30% of their traffic due to the current restrictions.
Moreover, the commission’s rules on Android and Play may expose Europeans to more malware and fraud by forcing a false choice between openness and security. Unlike iOS, where Apple reviews apps before distribution, developers can freely distribute apps on Android, offering users a wider range of choices. However, this openness comes with risks, including malicious links and scammy apps.
Charging reasonable fees for the ongoing development of Android and Play services is also essential to support the platform’s growth and security. Without these fees, the platform cannot invest in protecting users from scams and ensuring their safety.
The DMA, designed to regulate large platforms like Google, Apple, and Meta, has an unintended consequence: harming European businesses and consumers. The DMA’s rules are meant to boost competition but instead have a detrimental effect on the market.
Source: https://blog.google/around-the-globe/google-europe/the-eus-competition-rules-are-hurting-consumers-and-businesses