UK’s CMA Targets Google’s Search Dominance with New ’Fair Ranking’ Measures

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has moved to curb Google's stranglehold on search services, proposing mandatory "fair ranking" protocols and greater publisher control over content usage—including AI-generated outputs. The regulator designated Google with "strategic market status" under new digital competition laws, citing its overwhelming dominance in search and search advertising. A final decision is expected by October after public consultation.

Google pushed back sharply, calling the proposals "broad and unfocused" and warning they could limit UK access to its newest services. The clash marks one of the first major tests of Britain's updated digital market regulations, which subject tech giants with "strategic market status" to stricter conduct rules.