Google updates European search results to comply with EU antitrust rules

Google has implemented significant updates to its search interface for users within the European Union to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and previous antitrust enforcement decisions. The changes specifically target travel-related queries, including flights, hotels, and restaurants.

The redesigned search results page now features two distinct sections. An “aggregator unit” displays results from third-party online travel agencies and booking platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia. This section uses a stacked format where the highest-ranked provider is expanded by default. A separate “supplier unit” showcases direct listings from individual service providers like airlines and hotels.

These modifications aim to ensure more equitable visibility for third-party intermediaries, preventing Google from unfairly favoring its own services over competitors. The new layout includes carousels for hotels, airlines, and restaurants, with the specific order of services determined by Google’s algorithm to balance external service visibility with direct supplier options.