EU-Google antitrust case: European Commission opens probe against tech giant over market dominance using AI tools

Core Viewpoint - The European Commission has initiated an investigation into Google for allegedly abusing its market dominance through the use of AI tools to disadvantage competitors [1][2]. Group 1: Investigation Details - The investigation will assess whether Alphabet Inc. has distorted competition by imposing unfair terms on content creators [2]. - The EU will examine the extent of Google's use of 'AI Overviews' and 'AI Mode' based on web publishers' content and whether they are compensated fairly [3]. Group 2: Regulatory Intent - The EU's Antitrust Commissioner emphasized that this investigation aims to protect the online press and content creators, ensuring fair competition in the emerging AI markets [4]. Group 3: Penalty Threat and Company Response - Google faced a potential $3.4 billion penalty and, in November 2025, proposed changes to its ad tech products and search results to settle this threat [5][6]. - Alphabet is prepared to enhance interoperability across its ad tech services to provide publishers and advertisers with more flexibility [7]. Group 4: Ongoing Disagreement - Despite the investigation and proposed changes, Google maintains its disagreement with the European antitrust watchdog's previous decisions and plans to appeal [8].