UK Imposes Six-Month Ranking Transparency, Three-Month Data Portability on Google
UK's CMA mandates Alphabet to implement objective non-discriminatory criteria for organic search rankings, including AI results, within six months and provide advance notice of significant changes. Google must also enable user search data transfers to authorized third parties within three months, aligning UK rules with the EU Digital Markets Act.
1. CMA Introduces Two Conduct Requirements
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority has issued two new mandates for Google’s search services under the digital markets regime. Alphabet must enhance transparency in organic search results and allow user data portability, with six-month and three-month deadlines respectively.
2. Search Ranking Transparency Details
Google is required to use objective, non-discriminatory criteria when ranking organic results, including AI-generated features. The company must provide businesses with clear explanations of ranking processes and advance notice of significant algorithmic changes.
3. Data Portability Mandate
Within three months, Google must enable users to transfer search data to authorized third-party platforms for rewards or personalized offers. This measure aligns UK user rights with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, aiming to foster innovation and competition.
