Britain’s competition regulator has proposed measures requiring Google to give Android and Chrome users greater control over their choice of search providers, including eligible AI assistants such as ChatGPT and Perplexity.
Under the proposals, Google would be required to display a selection of search providers when users set up an Android device or access Chrome for the first time.
Users would also be given the opportunity to review their default search provider annually, allowing them to change their preferred service.
The proposed rules would allow AI assistants that meet Google’s technical and security requirements to appear among the available options, potentially expanding the range of services users can select for online searches.
The Competition and Markets Authority also proposed measures requiring search providers to clearly identify publishers whose content appears in search results, helping users recognise original sources and access the underlying material.
CMA Chief Executive Sarah Cardell said online search behaviour is changing as more people turn to AI assistants for information.
She said the regulator had considered feedback on its proposals and was responding to the growing use of AI-powered services that are not currently included on Google’s choice screens.
The CMA will accept responses to the proposals until October 9 and expects to make a final decision before the end of the year.
The proposals follow measures announced by the CMA in June concerning Google’s search services, including requirements aimed at ensuring search rankings are fair and transparent as competition in online search evolves.
Goodness Anunobi
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