Double investigation by the EU into Google and YouTube

The European Union has launched a wide-ranging investigation into Google over its use of online content without compensation and YouTube's restrictions on competing artificial intelligence models.

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The European Commission has announced that an investigation has been opened into Google's violations of competition law. The Commission is concerned that Google uses publishers' online content without paying appropriate compensation and does not offer an option to refuse the use of such content. In this context, allegations that Google's artificial intelligence systems are being illegally fed with third-party content will be examined.

European Commission Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera stated that while artificial intelligence offers innovations and benefits in Europe, this progress cannot be achieved by compromising fundamental principles. Ribera expressed that they are investigating whether Google has violated EU competition rules by imposing unfair terms on content creators and putting rival artificial intelligence developers at a disadvantage.

It is also noted that YouTube prohibits Google's competitors from using platform content to train their artificial intelligence systems. It is alleged that this situation gives Google an advantage in developing its artificial intelligence models. Large digital platforms operating in Europe are required to comply with the EU's strict technology regulations.

While it is not yet clear how long this investigation into Google will last, it is known that the company is also facing lawsuits due to other competition violations, such as discrimination against media organizations. Heavy fines can be imposed on digital platforms that violate EU rules.