Google could be forced to change UK search as watchdog takes steps

Google could be forced to make a series of changes to its search business, including giving internet users an option to choose alternative services, after the UK competition watchdog proposed to tighten regulation of the company.

The Competition and Market Authority (CMA) is preparing to designate the world’s largest search engine with “strategic market status” – a term that gives the watchdog extra powers to regulate technology companies deemed to have considerable market heft.

Google, which is owned by the US tech company Alphabet, accounts for more than 90% of search queries in Britain.

The CMA said it was minded to introduce bespoke regulatory measures for Google, including giving users “choice screens” to help them switch between search services, ensuring fair ranking of search results, and more control for publishers over how their content is used, including in AI-generated responses.

If the CMA confirms its decision in October, Google will be the first company designated since the regulator gained new powers this year.

Sarah Cardell, the CMA chief executive, said the announcement marked an important milestone in a new regulatory regime under the recent Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act.

Cardell said: “These targeted and proportionate actions would give UK businesses and consumers more choice and control over how they interact with Google’s search services – as well as unlocking greater opportunities for innovation across the UK tech sector and broader economy.”

The CMA said it planned further action to address more complex issues over a longer period, starting in 2026, such as concerns about Google’s treatment of rival specialised search firms and transparency and control in search advertising.

Google said the move could have significant implications for businesses and consumers in the UK.

“We’re concerned that the scope of the CMA’s considerations remains broad and unfocused, with a range of interventions being considered before any evidence has been provided,” said Oliver Bethell, Google’s senior director for competition.