Archive · 12 Dec 2025
EU Threatens Google with Fines Over Google Play
Google might have to pay a big fine if it doesn't change its app store, Google Play, to follow EU rules.
The EU says Google Play makes it hard for app developers to offer cheaper deals elsewhere and charges too much for new customers.
Google has made some changes, but the EU thinks they're not enough.
They're comparing Google's changes to what Apple did with its App Store after getting fined.
Google says more changes could put users at risk.
The EU can fine Google up to 10% of its global income if it doesn't comply.
This is all part of the EU's effort to make sure big tech companies play fair and give consumers more choices.
Google faces potential fines from the EU if Google Play doesn't comply with EU rules by early next year.
EU regulators are concerned about technical restrictions preventing developers from steering users to cheaper offers and excessive service fees.
Google's recent changes to Google Play are deemed insufficient by the EU, with Apple's App Store changes serving as a benchmark.
Google argues that further changes could put Android users at risk of malware, scams, and data theft.
The EU can impose fines of up to 10% of Google's global annual revenue for non-compliance with the Digital Markets Act.
- Who
- Google and the European Commission
- What
- Potential fines for Google Play non-compliance with EU rules
- When
- First quarter of next year (subject to change)
- Where
- Brussels, Belgium
- Why
- Google Play's technical restrictions and service fees are deemed unfair by EU regulators
- Company
- Regulator
- European Commission
- Potential Fine
- Up to 10% of Google's global annual revenue
- Issue
- Non-compliance with EU's Digital Markets Act
- Timeline
- First quarter of next year (subject to change)
- Comparative Benchmark
- Apple's App Store changes
- Google's Stance
- Concerns about user security risks from further changes
