**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
(Google faces a multi-billion euro fine from the EU)
**BRUSSELS, [Date]** – European Union antitrust regulators fined Google billions of euros. The EU Commission announced this significant penalty today. This decision follows a long investigation. The Commission found Google broke EU competition rules.
Officials said Google used its Android mobile operating system unfairly. The system powers most smartphones globally. Google required phone makers to pre-install Google apps. These apps include the Google Search app and the Chrome browser. Phone makers needed to do this to get access to the Google Play Store. The Play Store is essential for Android phones.
The Commission stated this practice harmed competition. It stopped phone makers from selling devices with alternative versions of Android. These versions could use rival apps. Google also made payments to large phone makers and mobile network operators. The payments were for exclusively pre-installing the Google Search app. This further blocked competitors.
EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager explained the ruling. “Google used Android to cement its search engine dominance. Dominance is not illegal. But dominant companies have special responsibilities. Google abused its market position. It imposed illegal restrictions on phone makers and network operators. This stifled innovation. It reduced choice for consumers,” Vestager stated.
The fine totals several billion euros. It reflects the seriousness and duration of the violation. The EU order also requires Google to stop its illegal practices. Google must change its contracts with phone makers and network operators within 90 days. Failure to comply risks further penalties.
Google expressed strong disagreement with the EU decision. A company spokesperson called the ruling flawed. “Android has created more choice, not less. The model supports thousands of successful businesses in Europe and worldwide,” the spokesperson said. Google plans to appeal the fine and the ruling to the European courts.
(Google faces a multi-billion euro fine from the EU)
This fine represents one of the largest ever imposed by the EU. It marks a major escalation in the EU’s ongoing efforts to regulate major technology firms. The case focuses on ensuring fair competition in digital markets. The EU aims to protect consumers and smaller rivals. Market analysts note the ruling could force significant changes to Google’s core business model in Europe. Phone manufacturers may gain more freedom. They could install competing apps alongside Google’s offerings.