Google search comes under renewed scrutiny in UK as competition watchdog flexes new powers

In a significant move, the UK's competition regulator has activated new powers to oversee Google's search operations, intensifying scrutiny on the tech giant. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced the designation of Google as having "strategic market status" for its general search and search advertising services. Will Hayter, the CMA's executive director for digital markets, explained that this designation stems from Google's overwhelming market presence, with over 90% of searches in the UK conducted through its platform. While Google's Gemini AI assistant remains outside this designation, other AI-driven search functions are included, highlighting the regulator's focus on the evolving landscape of digital services. In response, Google defended its search services, asserting that they significantly contribute to the UK economy. Oliver Bethell, the senior director of competition at Google, cautioned that some proposed regulatory interventions could stifle innovation and impede product launches during a critical period of AI advancement. He expressed hope for outcomes that would align with the ambitions of fostering growth and innovation in the coming months.