In order to address concerns raised by a German antitrust investigation, Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, has graciously decided to modify its user data practices. This investigation specifically aimed to address the issue of Google's overwhelming dominance in data-driven markets. The German regulator had expressed reservations about the way Google handles user data and the limited choices available to users in this regard. It is worth noting that prominent technology companies like Google heavily depend on targeted advertising, which relies on the extensive collection of user data. Consequently, this business model has come under regulatory scrutiny on a global scale.
According to the German regulator, Google's commitments are expected to provide users with enhanced control over their data usage across the company's platforms. Andreas Mundt, President of the cartel office, underscored the importance of this advancement. He mentioned that in the coming times, users of Google services will have a greater influence on the handling of their data, safeguarding their rights while also restraining Google's data-centred dominance in the market.
Google's commitment extends to over 25 services, such as Gmail, Google News, Assistant, Contacts, and Google TV. However, please note that it does not encompass specific services like Google Shopping, Google Play, Google Maps, Google Search, YouTube, Google Android, Google Chrome, and Google's online advertising services. These services are subject to the regulations of a new EU legislation known as the Digital Markets Act, which imposes comparable responsibilities.
The German competition authority, which acquired expanded powers in 2021, has commenced investigations into major tech companies such as Amazon, Meta Platforms, and Apple. These newly acquired powers enable the authority to carefully examine and potentially restrict specific practices carried out by companies that hold considerable market influence in diverse sectors.
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