The European Commission has imposed a €890 million fine on Google for breaching the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This penalty comprises two separate fines: €460 million for self-preferencing in Google Search and €430 million for anti-steering practices on Google Play. ([digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu](https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-fines-google-eu890-million-breaches-digital-markets-act?utm_source=openai))
The Commission found that Google gave preferential treatment to its own services, such as Google Flights and Google Hotels, over those of third parties in search results. This practice violated the DMA's prohibition against gatekeepers favoring their own services. ([digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu](https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-fines-google-eu890-million-breaches-digital-markets-act?utm_source=openai))
Additionally, Google was found to have restricted app developers from informing users about alternative, often cheaper, purchase options outside of Google Play. This anti-steering practice breached the DMA's requirement for gatekeepers to allow business users to promote their offers and conclude contracts with customers outside the platform. ([digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu](https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-fines-google-eu890-million-breaches-digital-markets-act?utm_source=openai))
The €890 million fine is the largest imposed under the DMA to date, reflecting the Commission's commitment to enforcing the regulation. Google has 60 days to comply with the Commission's orders to cease these practices. ([digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu](https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/commission-fines-google-eu890-million-breaches-digital-markets-act?utm_source=openai))
The Digital Markets Act, which came into force on 1 November 2022, aims to ensure fair competition in the digital sector by imposing obligations and prohibitions on large digital platforms designated as gatekeepers. The Act complements existing EU competition rules and provides a framework for regulating the power of major tech companies. ([digital-markets-act.ec.europa.eu](https://digital-markets-act.ec.europa.eu/about-dma_en?utm_source=openai))
This fine follows previous penalties under the DMA, including a €500 million fine against Apple in April 2025 for restricting app developers from informing users about alternative payment options outside the App Store. ([macrumors.com](https://www.macrumors.com/2025/04/23/apple-breach-digital-markets-act-eu/?utm_source=openai)) The Commission's actions underscore its commitment to promoting fairness and contestability in the digital market.
Google has stated that it intends to appeal the Commission's decision, arguing that the fine is disproportionate and that its practices do not harm competition. The company maintains that its services provide value to consumers and that the Commission's interpretation of the DMA is incorrect.
The outcome of this case may have significant implications for other tech companies operating in the EU, as it sets a precedent for the enforcement of the Digital Markets Act. Companies are now on notice that the Commission is actively monitoring compliance and is prepared to impose substantial fines for violations.
The European Commission's decision is part of a broader effort to regulate the digital sector and ensure that large platforms do not abuse their market power. The DMA is a key component of the EU's digital strategy, aiming to create a more competitive and fair digital market for consumers and businesses alike.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the Commission's enforcement actions under the DMA will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of digital markets in Europe.
The case also highlights the ongoing tension between the EU and major tech companies over regulatory approaches. While the EU emphasizes the need for strict regulations to ensure fair competition, tech companies often argue that such regulations can stifle innovation and harm consumers. The resolution of this case may influence future regulatory approaches and the balance between regulation and innovation in the tech industry.
In conclusion, the European Commission's €890 million fine against Google serves as a significant enforcement action under the Digital Markets Act, reinforcing the EU's commitment to fair competition in the digital sector. The case's outcome will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and may set important precedents for future regulatory actions.