A coalition of independent publishers has filed an antitrust complaint with the European Commission, alleging Google is abusing its dominant search position.
Lawsuit Against Google
The group of independent publishers has accused Google of using their content to generate AI Overviews without offering an opt-out option. They seek an interim injunction, warning of potential irreversible damage to their readership and revenues.
Concerns Over AI Overviews
Google's AI Overviews automatically generate summaries that appear above traditional search links. Some content providers argue that this feature unfairly reduces traffic to their sites. The lawsuit claims Google 'misuses web content for AI Overviews,' leading to 'significant harm to publishers, including losses in traffic and revenue.'
Google's Response and Impact on Publishers
Google maintains that its new AI features aid users in finding content and businesses. A spokesperson stated that 'new AI experiences in Search enable people to ask even more questions.' However, organizations like Foxglove warn of an existential threat to independent news outlets, as they cannot opt out of having their content used without losing visibility in regular search results.
The lawsuit against Google highlights the increasing tension between AI and journalism, raising questions about whether the company can continue its search innovations without harming the publishers whose content drives its algorithms.
