EU fines Google parent €890 million for DMA violations in Search and Play Store

The European Commission announced a €890 million penalty against Alphabet, the parent company of Google, for breaching the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in two areas. One fine of €460 million addresses the preferential placement of Google’s Shopping, Hotels and Flights services in its Search results, while a €430 million fine concerns Play Store rules that prevented Android developers from directing users to alternative payment methods.

Under the ruling, Google must adjust its policies within 60 days or face additional periodic penalties. In Search, the company is required to treat third-party services fairly and without discrimination. For the Play Store, it must allow developers to promote offers both inside and outside the store.

The Commission noted that recent changes by Google, such as removing the Google Flights widget for EU users and altering the layout to highlight third-party comparison sites, represent progress toward compliance. Google has previously contested the EU’s criticisms, describing the required changes as a “downgrade” to the product experience. The company also argues that opening Android distribution could increase security risks, but has updated certain terms after consultations with the Commission.

The fines follow a two-year DMA investigation that began after a preliminary ruling in March 2025 and an extension granted in May 2026. The maximum penalty under the DMA can reach 10 % of a firm’s global revenue, which would amount to $40 billion for Google based on its 2025 earnings.

“The best products should succeed because they’re better, not because they’re owned by the company running the search engine,” said Teresa Ribera, the Commission’s executive vice-president for clean, just and competitive transition.