European Union: European Commission adopted preliminary report in investigation assessing Alphabet's rules on steering in Google Play under Digital Markets Act

On 19 March 2025, the European Commission adopted a preliminary report with findings on Alphabet's rules on steering in Google Play under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The report stated that the platform restricts application developers from steering users to alternative offers. The report also found that Alphabet imposes technical restrictions preventing developers from freely informing customers about better deals outside Google Play. Additionally, Alphabet charges developers high fees for purchases made over an extended period, exceeding what is justified under the DMA. Alphabet has the opportunity to respond before the Commission issues a final decision on non-compliance.