Google is preparing to test adjustments to its search results in Europe that would highlight competing services more prominently, according to a source familiar with the plans.
The move comes as the company faces potential penalties under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which aims to prevent dominant platforms from favoring their own products. Regulators have been reviewing whether Google’s presentation of travel and hospitality services disadvantages rival providers.
The proposed changes would display external vertical search services alongside Google’s own results by default. This approach is intended to give users broader visibility of alternatives in categories such as accommodation, flights, and dining.
The rollout is expected to begin with lodging-related searches before expanding to additional travel services. Officials in Brussels have not commented on the reported plans.
Google has faced multiple antitrust actions in Europe over the past decade. Implementing new search formats could help address regulatory concerns and reduce the risk of further financial penalties.
The development reflects ongoing efforts by major technology firms to align their platforms with evolving competition rules in global digital markets.
