Google recently started experimenting in Europe to test the effects of removing news articles from its search results.
However, the experiment quickly backfired, sparking legal challenges and backlash from publishers.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between tech companies and news organisations.
Google recently started experimenting in Europe to test the effects of removing news articles from its search results. This trial was part of its efforts to understand the financial implications of complying with EU laws that require digital platforms to pay for using news content. However, the experiment quickly backfired, sparking legal challenges and backlash from publishers.
The trial, which ran in nine European countries, impacted 1% of users. For these users, search results and Google News excluded articles from EU-based news organisations, leaving them with limited information options. The experiment aimed to assess the value of news previews and calculate how much Google would need to pay under EU rules.
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News publishers discovered the experiment through a blog post, triggering widespread criticism. Within a day, the Paris Commercial Court stepped in, ruling that Google had violated its agreement with the French Competition Authority. The court ordered Google to either halt the experiment or face a hefty daily fine of €900,000. As a result, Google removed France from the trial, reducing the number of participating countries to eight.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between tech companies and news organisations over payment for content. While Google likely intended to evaluate the impact of removing news previews, its approach angered publishers and raised questions about compliance with EU regulations.
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For Google, the controversy is a reminder of the complexities involved in navigating digital content laws in Europe. If more countries follow France’s lead in opposing the experiment, the tech giant may need to rethink its strategy to avoid further legal and reputational risks.
The trial underscores the broader debate about how platforms should compensate news outlets for their content. As tech companies and publishers continue to clash over this issue, it is clear that finding a balance will not be easy. For now, Google faces the challenge of addressing the concerns raised by this experiment while ensuring it meets the demands of EU law.
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Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile
