Newsletter
DMA targets Google search and other tech companies that qualifies as “gatekeepers” under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Notable among them are Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, and Microsoft, along with China’s ByteDance. These gatekeepers must comply with DMA obligations for 22 core platform services by March 2024.
The DMA aims to regulate Big Tech by promoting competition, interoperability, and reducing anti-competitive practices. Major messaging apps, for example, must become interoperable with competitors, and operating systems must allow third-party app stores and alternative in-app payment options.
The list of core platform services includes social networks (e.g., TikTok, Facebook), messaging services (WhatsApp, Messenger), intermediation services (Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta), video sharing (YouTube), advertising services (Google, Amazon, Meta), web browsers (Chrome, Safari), search engines (Google Search), and operating systems (Android, iOS, Windows).
However, companies like Samsung, Microsoft’s Bing, Edge browser, and Apple’s iMessage face potential regulation pending market investigations. These probes could lead to mandates, such as Apple making iMessage interoperable with competitors. Companies must follow DMA rules based on their designated core platform services. Criteria for gatekeeper designation include annual turnover exceeding €7.5 billion in Europe and over 45 million monthly active EU users.
DMA target Google search obligations
DMA imposes obligations like offering choice among search engines and enabling the removal of pre-installed apps. Gatekeepers are prohibited from self-preferencing their products. Some companies, like Apple, express concerns about privacy and security. Others, including Meta and Microsoft, accept their designation and investigation.
The process isn’t without challenges, as legal disputes akin to those faced by Amazon and Zalando under the Digital Services Act are expected. Gatekeepers not complying with DMA rules can face fines up to 10% of global turnover or structural remedies, such as divestiture.
In summary, the European Commission has designated gatekeepers among major tech companies to enforce DMA regulations. This initiative aims to promote competition and consumer choice while potentially facing legal hurdles in the future.