Google search screen to be free for rival search engines

Google could be the most popular search engine in the world, but it is hardly the only one. Some are trying to survive in their local markets against the power of Google’s resources. In Europe, the technology giant has been legally forced to present Android users with a screen of choice, allowing them to select the browser and the search for their choice. This choice did not come toll free for these search engines, but now, Google eliminates the hedge that forced these search engines to pay to even be on this screen list.

An antitrust decision from the European Commission in 2019 has stopped Google from Grouper Chrome and searching in its Android phones. Instead of just leaving users to confuse what to use, Google Implemented a screen of choice that will let them select from a list. Although this has satisfied the letter of the law, the obligation to appear on this list may not have been in the spirit of fair competition.

To be eligible to be on this list, search engines will have to win an auction, which means spending money. This naturally promotes larger companies like Microsoft and Yahoo, but is a huge barrier at entry for local search engines and non-profits. Google says that after discussing with the European Commission, it finally eliminates this system.

It does not mean that everyone and everyone can be on this screen of choice, however. Google will implement certain criteria for which must be at the top of the list, especially the five most popular search engines in a particular country based on statcounter figures. There will also be seven other options for general research services and every twelve will be ordered at random.

Google says this change will be implemented starting in September for Android devices sold within the European Union. Although this change has been mandated in the region, it did not take on other major markets like the United States where Google is also facing an antitrust exam.