The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is due to be adopted by the European Union on March 6, 2024. In response, Google is testing and making changes to its products and services in the region. In its update, Google mentions future changes to Android, Chrome, Search, and other Google services for European users.
What Changes is Google Making?
If you have an Android phone in Europe, soon setting it up will give you more choice. You’ll be able to easily pick your default search engine and browser. Google will also show iPhone and desktop users choices for these apps.
Google usually shares your data between apps like YouTube, Search and Gmail. Under the new rules, they will need to get your permission first. Google will ask if you want apps to still link up and share data to personalize ads and content.
You’ll also get options to link some apps like keeping them all joined or separating them. But some features might not work as well if apps are not linked, like recommendations between YouTube and Search.
Search results are changing too. Google will add special sections for hotel and product comparisons from other sites. You’ll see more images and ratings in those results. They are also building tools to more easily filter results.
Plus, developers will get a new API tool to help users move their data out of Google apps and into other services if wanted.
While Google must follow Europe’s new rules, they have voiced concerns that the changes could limit choices for people and businesses. They are steadily rolling out updates ahead of the March deadline.
