The internet company will make modifications to Google Store, Google Play Store, Google Hotels, and Google Flights and address the concerns raised by the authorities to adhere to EU consumer laws
Google agrees to comply with EU rules. (Credit: brewbooks from near Seattle, USA/Wikimedia Commons)
The European Commission (EC) said that Google has agreed to make changes in several of its products and services to provide consumers with clearer and more accurate information to ensure compliance with the regulations of the European Union (EU).
Google will make modifications to Google Store, Google Play Store, Google Flights, and Google Hotels and address the concerns raised by the authorities to adhere to EU consumer laws, stated the Commission.
The technology major’s decision to introduce changes follows the dialogue that started in 2021 with the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPC).
It was coordinated by the EC and led by the Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets as well as the Belgian Directorate-General for Economic Inspection.
As part of the modifications, Google will make it clear to its Google Flights and Google Hotels’ users if it is their direct provider or just an intermediary.
It will also clarify that the reviews are not validated on Google Hotels as well as make it clear to users about the price used as a reference when discounts are advertised on its platform.
For Google Play Store and Google Store consumers, the technology major will provide pre-contractual information on delivery costs, right of withdrawal, and availability of repair or replacement choices.
The CPC will monitor the fulfilment of these commitments actively, and national authorities will keep an eye on compliance and enforce it where necessary, said the EC.
EC Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders said: “Even today, almost three years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, we see an increasing number of consumers turn to the internet to book their holidays, make purchases, or consult a review.
“EU consumers are entitled to clear, complete information so that they can make informed choices. The commitments made by Google are a step forward in this direction.
“We call on Google to comply fully with the Geo-blocking Regulation, ensuring that consumers can enjoy the same rights and access the same content, wherever they are in the EU.”