Google will let rivals appear as the default search engine option on Android for free

Google will let rivals appear as the default search engine option on Android for free

Google will dump the auction system that forces other providers to bid the right to be displayed as the default search engine option on Android. Following the enforcement enforcement of $ 5 billion in 2018, people in Europe have been able to choose which core applications and services they use on Android by default, instead of having to use Google products at first.

Users in this region view the Android selection screen when setting the device or after resetting the factory. They can choose their default search engines from a number of options. However, the three providers presented with Google Search have been determined by the sealed bidding process.

Some rival search engines call the pay-to-play method unfair. The European Commission told TechCrunch that he stepped after competitors marked their doubts about the approach. EC “Discussing with Google means increasing the screen of the choice to overcome the problem.”

“Following further feedback from the commission, we now make some of the last changes on screen options including making free participation for qualified search providers,” Oliver Bethell, the head of Google’s competition for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, wrote in a blog post. “We will also increase the number of search providers displayed on the screen. These changes will begin to apply from September this year on Android devices.”

The changed selection screen will display up to 12 search engine options. What you choose is default for searching on the Home screen and Chrome, if you use it as your browser. Your device will also install the provider search application.

Only general search engines are qualified, and they need to have a free search application on the Play Store. Vertical search engine (i.e. specialist or specific subject) will be locked. Providers that the search results of syndication and advertising from Google will not be displayed in the list too. Changes will take effect for new Android devices sold in the economic area of ​​England and Europe on September 1.

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