Possible options include choice screens, meaning users can switch more easily between search engines; more transparency and control for publishers whose content is used in Google\u2019s AI overviews; and portability of consumer search data.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Google said the CMA\u2019s actions could delay product launches in the U.K. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Its senior director for competition Oliver Bethell said: \u201cThe U.K. enjoys access to the latest products and services before other countries because it has so far avoided costly restrictions on popular services, such as Search. Retaining this position means avoiding unduly onerous regulations and learning from the negative results seen in other jurisdictions.\u201d<\/p>\n
He added: \u201cMany of the ideas for interventions that have been raised in this process would inhibit U.K. innovation and growth, potentially slowing product launches at a time of profound AI-based innovation.\u201d<\/p>\n
Google\u2019s Gemini AI assistant is not in scope of the designation, but the CMA said its position will be \u201ckept under review.\u201d<\/p>\n
Will Hayter, executive director for digital markets at the CMA,\u00a0said: \u201cBy promoting competition in digital markets like search and search advertising we can unlock opportunities for businesses big and small to support innovation and growth, driving investment across the U.K. economy.\u201d<\/p>\n