Google May Let You Choose Which Of Its Services Are Linked, Thanks to EU

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) is a law in the European Union that wants to make the digital market fairer and more competitive. Its goals are to enhance competition in the digital sector and ensure everyone has an equal opportunity.

The majority of the DMA rules became effective force in May 2023, but The official appointment of the guardians did not occur until September 2023

 By March 6, 2024, every company that received the guardian designation had to comply with the DMA.

This year, companies that have been recognized as gatekeepers, such as Google and Apple, will be subject to the regulations of the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Google recently announced information about how it will abide by the DMA, which may impact how you use YouTube, Google Play, and other services.

Google has published a useful guide called “About DMA & your linked services.” 

The document outlines that once the DMA takes effect on March 6, 2024, users will have the option to disconnect various Google services, such as Search, YouTube, Advertising services, Google Play, Chrome, Google Shopping, and Google Maps, if they desire.

However, Google’s new DMA changes bring tradeoffs for users. Unlinking Search, YouTube, and Chrome affect personalized YouTube recommendations.

 If Search and Maps are unlinked, Google Maps won’t suggest locations based on past activity. Users in Europe now have a more precise choice between privacy and convenience.