The EU is investigating whether Google used publisher and creator content to train its AI without fair compensation, potentially breaching antitrust rules.
BRUSSELS: The European Commission has launched a formal antitrust investigation into Google’s use of online content to train and provide its artificial intelligence services.
The probe will assess whether the US tech giant breached EU competition rules by using media and publisher content without appropriate compensation or an opt-out option.
It will focus on two key areas: the alleged use of YouTube videos to train generative AI models without adequately paying creators, and the use of content from other sites like newspapers to power AI services.
“Google does not remunerate YouTube content creators for their content, nor does allow them to upload their content on YouTube without allowing Google to use such data,” the commission stated.
The investigation will also examine whether Google’s terms disadvantage rival AI developers, who are barred by YouTube policies from using its content for training.
This relates to services like Google’s AI-generated search summaries and its “AI Mode” chatbot feature.
“A free and democratic society depends on diverse media, open access to information, and a vibrant creative landscape,” said EU competition chief Teresa Ribera.
“AI is bringing remarkable innovation… but this progress cannot come at the expense of the principles at the heart of our societies.”
Ribera added they are investigating whether Google imposed unfair terms on publishers while disadvantaging rival AI developers.
There is no deadline for the investigation, which does not prejudge its outcome, but Google could face a hefty fine if found in breach.
