Google Now Shows “Free” Alternative Search Engines in Android

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From September Android users can choose their preferred search engine for up to twelve instead of four providers. Google also removes the obligation to auction pay-to-play.

Search engine company Google, which is also responsible for the mobile operating system Android, has had a tough time providing its competition barrier-free access to users’ devices. In response to a $1 billion fine from the European Union Commission because Google is said to have taken advantage of its search engine dominant position with Android, US Group responds with pay-to-play.

Google alternatives such as DuckDuckGo, Ecosia or Bing had to offer three available locations for the selection menu in the auction. Only the three highest bidders made it to the selection – other than Google. Incidentally, Google itself did not pay. All that is changing now. Because the auction process, which Google described as “fair and objective”, found both the competitors and the EU Commission to be anything but fair, how heise.de report.

In the fall, DuckDuckGo, Ecosia, Lilo, Quant and Sezname rolled into one Open letter to EU Competition Commissioner Margaret Vestager And said they work with Google to change the auction process. The initiative was apparently successful.

Since, so google: “Following further feedback from the Commission, we are now making some final changes to the selection screen. It also includes free participation for search providers.”

It also increases the number of providers displayed on the screen. Users should be able to choose from up to twelve search engines when setting up their Android device. According to Google, the order of providers is determined by chance. Which providers are displayed may vary from country to country.

Alternative providers are very happy. “It’s a real David vs. Goliath story – and David won. This is an important day and a real moment for Ecosia to celebrate,” said Ecosia CEO Christian Kroll.

Google, on the other hand, is confident of victory. You will prevail because Google has the most useful search engine. Accordingly, Google wants to invest more in Search and Android. In any case, the group is pleased with the open dialogue with the EU Commission.

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