Google Plans EU Search Overhaul to Avoid DMA Fines, Will Display Rivals “Equally” to Google Flights/Hotels

Google plans an EU search overhaul to avoid DMA fines by revamping its search display to allow third-party services to appear on equal footing with Google Flights and Google Hotels, according to Reuters. Regulators had accused Google in March 2025 of self-preferential practices in search and Google Play Store operations, with potential fines exceeding $35 billion.

Regulators have particularly scrutinised the company for favouring its own vertical services, such as Google Flights and Google Hotels, which allegedly overshadow rivals like Expedia and Hotels[.]com. Google's compliance plan states that other search providers offering similar services will be displayed in equivalent formats, with rankings determined by objective and non-discriminatory principles; its own services would appear in the same standardised layout.

The move signals DMA influence on major tech firms and follows Apple, which has revised its App Store policies, with Google now appearing poised to follow suit to avoid substantial penalties.