UK introduces world-first rule for Google AI use

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has implemented a groundbreaking rule aimed at leveling the playing field between Google and publishers. This new regulation, described as a "world first," grants publishers greater control over how their content is utilized by Google, particularly for AI-driven features.

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This ensures fair treatment, greater transparency and meaningful choice for businesses and consumers.

Under the new code, publishers can now opt out of having their content used to train AI Overviews, Google's generative AI feature for search results. This move is designed to give news organizations and other content creators more bargaining power when negotiating with Google over the use of their material. The CMA stated that this will lead to fairer deals and increased transparency for publishers.

Sarah Cardell, the CMA's Chief Executive, emphasized the importance of this regulation in the rapidly evolving online search landscape. "As features like AI Overviews rapidly reshape online search, it is crucial that publishers, including news organizations, have appropriate bargaining power over how their content is used," she said. The CMA believes these measures will help millions of search users in the UK better understand and trust the information they receive.

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As features like AI Overviews rapidly reshape online search, it is crucial that publishers, including news organizations, have appropriate bargaining power over how their content is used.

The new rules are designed to be adaptable, responding to Google's current and future actions. The CMA aims to ensure that both businesses and consumers benefit from fair treatment, enhanced transparency, and meaningful choices in the digital space.

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These measures will help millions of search users in the UK to better understand and trust the information they are presented with.